Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Rachael is an international keynote speaker and thought leadership coach helping female entrepreneurs in the lifestyle space build personal brands. She joins LuAnn to share a practical plan for positioning your brand, honing your activities, and attracting your ideal client.
[17:05] Rachael tell about how she started her first business from her dorm room
[26:55] Rachael shares exactly how her client process works
[28:26] Rachael explains why press is so important to building trust
[37:42] LuAnn and Rachael chat about the strategy Rachael would use for a sample client
[50:48] Rachael shares about how she typically works with seasoned designers
[52:14] Rachael talks about what it takes for a client to execute her strategy
[55:47] Rachael shares how she stays connected and pitches herself
“To be paid for your work, you need to have the credibility.” - Rachael Bozsik
“If we can surround you with stamps of approval, it becomes easier for your ideal client to say yes.” - Rachael Bozsik
“If you want your ideal opportunities, you have to pitch yourself for them.” - Rachael Bozsik
Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field.
It is Rachael's mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think - a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael's clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives.
Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda's SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah's Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
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Mydoma Studio is one of those companies you just know you can trust. They built their business around making you look good to your client. From client and vendor communications to mood board and package creation to getting your invoices paid, Mydoma studio is the best place for you to easily manage your projects efficiently and professionally. Go to Mydoma studio.com/awelldesignedbusiness today.
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Design is a second career for Sara Malek Barney. Sara was an executive in the entertainment and sports industries before she became the Founder and Principal Designer of Bandd Interiors in Austin, Texas. With plenty of business savvy under her belt, when she launched her design firm, Sara knew to concentrate on two tactics to create and grow her digital footprint. She’s also sharing her advice on how to expand your own business knowledge and deal with those unhappy clients.
[12:05] Sara details how she got started with her SEO vendor
[24:47] Sara provides commentary on what’s lacking in the coursework for interior design degree programs
[31:33] Sara describes the scope of her design projects
[37:11] LuAnn and Sara discuss the nuance of saying yes to smaller projects
[49:17] Sara explains why she isn’t big on detailed renderings
[53:40] Sara reviews the makeup of her team
[1:06:24] Sara give advice on reacting to unhappy clients
“I’m very big on hiring out. I’m not an expert in everything.” - Sara Malek Barney
“We don’t just quit our job and hope it works. We have a plan.” - LuAnn Nigara
“It’s never just black and white. There’s always a decision process through it.” - LuAnn Nigara
Sara is the mastermind behind the design. Prior to launching BANDD DESIGN, she spent the first phase of her professional career working in the fast-paced entertainment and sports industries, as an executive at companies such as SXSW, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Her past experience helps her deliver timeless, unique designs for her clients. She believes the design process should be highly collaborative and feel authentic to each individual.
An Austin-native (a rare breed!), Sara spent nearly a decade in sunny Los Angeles, California, where she met her writer husband, Dana, while they were both chasing the Hollywood dream. Now back on home turf, Sara and Dana enjoy endless amounts of breakfast tacos and college football (hook ’em!) with their two daughters.
Sara, a University of Texas alum, has degrees in Corporate Communication and Interior Design. She was named one of Fortune Magazine‘s Most Powerful Women {Next Gen}, one of Austin Monthly‘s Women to Watch, and is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the Female Founder Collective.
When not designing, you can find Sara wearing sequins, learning a hip hop dance routine, watching Seinfeld (yes, still), trying to be a cool mom, or daydreaming about Napa.
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That’s why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet’s new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today!
Today with Brad Leavitt:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome Brad Leavitt back for his fifth time on the show! Brad is here once again to share share his expert insight to help you better understand and navigate the design-build process. In today’s show Brad tells us what the process is like through the eyes of the builder. When you understand the builder's perspective, you will see how important it is for you as the designer to bring you’re A Game. So, let’s see what this looks like from the builder side, shall we?
More About Brad Leavitt:
Brad Leavitt is President of A Finer Touch Construction, LLC, a luxury residential and commercial builder located in Scottsdale, AZ. His Podcast, “The AFT Construction Podcast”, is focused on bringing value to its listeners, no matter their industry. The topics are focused on marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, organization, building science and construction. Brad is an ambassador for many national brands and an energetic public speaker.
Brad was born and raised in San Diego, CA as the oldest of 6 children. He grew up in the Construction industry and worked as an electrician throughout High School for Grove Electric with his 2 uncles. They did remodels and new home builds all over San Diego, but mostly on Coronado Island and in Rancho Santa Fe. Upon HS Graduation, he was accepted to Brigham Young University where he received a Bachelor’s of Science in Construction Management.
Brad accepted an offer in 2005 with Trend Homes, a local production home builder in Phoenix, AZ. He worked 1 year as a superintendent before accepting a dream job building custom homes. Rowland Luxury Homes hired Brad in 2006 and immediately he was assigned to be a Project Manager at the 350MM Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ. Brad oversaw the construction and completion of 34 Custom homes that ranged between 2-4MM each. After completion of the 34 custom homes, he then assisted with the completion of the hotel guest rooms, arrival zone, lodge and spa. After Montelucia was complete, Brad worked on numerous other residential and commercial projects in the greater Phoenix Area.
In March 2013, Brad was ready to begin his own company and officially started A Finer Touch Construction, also known throughout social media as AFT Construction. AFT has continued their rapid growth this past 7 years and has been fortunate to win numerous build awards for its work. AFT Construction offers a wide variety of services including: Multi family, commercial, residential, tenant improvement, retail and medical. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability and quality.
Connect with Brad Leavitt:
Podcast is “The AFT Construction Podcast"
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#615
#580
#560
#542
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, I’m thrilled to have Marie Flanigan back on the show. Marie has more than a decade of experience as a thriving designer, one whose list of accolades goes on for days. In today’s episode, Marie is answering questions from listeners about how to make big decisions in your business— how to attract the clients and projects you truly desire, how to strategically market, how to handle client expectations, and more!
“I think it’s so important to just live out doing the best you can— be the best at whatever you’re doing in the moment. That’s what builds the relationships, that’s what provides the contacts, that’s what gives you the 10,000 hours to become the expert and really grow into the area you want to be in.” -Marie Flanigan
“You do want to turn away the business that sucks the energy out of you or that takes too much of your time away, because when the right projects come along you need to be open for that.”
-Marie Flanigan
“Gut instinct is very important, but you should also go on data.”
-Marie Flanigan
“It isn’t just about putting an ad in a newspaper— it’s all the little things that you do across your business.” -LuAnn Nigara
Originally trained as an architect, Marie Flanigan seamlessly unites structure with style, unlocking a unique level of depth through her mutual consideration of an interior and its framework. For more than a decade, Marie has crafted well-articulated spaces that expertly reflect the stories of those who dwell and work within. Her trademark signature of innovative simplicity is evident through the sophisticated use of color, texture, and light. Marie’s projects span the country, from luxury residences to high-end commercial showrooms, each one exhibiting her firm’s commitment to exceptional design and extraordinary service.
Marie’s work and expertise have been featured by premier publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Southern Living, Domino, Traditional Home, Elegant Homes, Southern Home, and Luxe Magazine. She regularly shares her design and lifestyle advice with TV audiences, including her role on HGTV’s internationally broadcast series, Property Brothers: Brother vs. Brother.
In addition to Marie’s design work, she has now launched collections with some of the industry’s top manufacturers including Visual Comfort and Aria Stone. Her debut book, The Beauty of Home, is now available for purchase.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com and explore the new site for yourself today!
Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more!
#89 Marie Flanigan – How Marketing Strategies Helped Her Grow Her Firm
#50 Veronica Solomon – Powerful Marketing for your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook
#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward
Today's show is a different kind of episode. This week, I had several meaningful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, that made me take a few steps back, put the regularly scheduled programming on hold, and have a good old fashion sit down.
In life, and business, it is important to utilize our strengths and identify our weaknesses. Everyone has their unique superpower. It is what makes us the powerhouses that we are in our particular area of expertise. But we cannot be experts in everything. We cannot be all things to all people.
Today, I am here to remind you how you can take those feelings of overwhelm, and turn them into an action plan. Give yourself some grace on this journey. One step at a time, one goal at a time, keep showing up for yourself. That is how we decide to be excellent!
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Aymee and Molly of Light and Dwell, an Oregon based full service and virtual design firm were friends before they were business partners. They’re sharing what they’ve learned about themselves, about each other, and about how to mesh opposites together to grow a business from nothing to something amazing in just five short years.
[24:55] LuAnn recaps the tactics Aymee and Molly used to get their first clients
[30:09] Aymee and Molly share how they figured out how to work together when each have very different personalities
[37:17] LuAnn recaps business partnership tips and explains how the Window Works partnership works
[41:55] Aymee describes how they worked through her maternity leave
[49:19] LuAnn goes deep into how partnerships can work when there’s a disagreement
“She’s good at anything you can see.” - Aymee about Molly
“Whoever’s area of strength it is has the final say.” - LuAnn Nigara
“You both bring to the table what the other person needs.” LuAnn Nigara
Molly is married to Brad, and together they are raising three children [Karis, Krew + Karoline]. She enjoys being outdoors, drinking coffee, gluten-free cooking, and all sorts of design. She loves being creative and always has her hands in someone's flower arrangements, home decor or closet. Molly started Light and Dwell with Aymee 5 years ago, and now leads all the creative content and design for the business.
Molly Kidd • molly@lightanddwell.com
Aymee and her husband Jim have three young adult children. She has a passion for hospitality and creating a welcoming space for others. She enjoys a good cup of black coffee, baking, and traveling with her family. She runs the behind the scenes operations of Light and Dwell and loves anything under the subject area of systems and people!
Aymee Kuhlman • aymee.lightanddwell@gmail.com
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Mydoma Studio:
Are you having trouble with keeping track of your orders, your project management, your books, your proposals - all those backend things we love to hate? I want you to do some research and see if Mydoma would help you. It’s workflow software that manages your projects from beginning to end. As a listener, you can try it for 20% off for three months. To see if Mydoma is right for you, go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®. On today’s WTF— Window Treatment Friday, Vita and I are talking about scaling to your first million-dollar year. As most of you probably know, scaling is not an easy task. It takes hard work and lots of blood, sweat, and tears. But when you can learn from someone who has already done it, it cuts the time and effort down and makes scaling attainable far before you thought it was possible. Today, Vita shares with us her five core pillars for scaling your business and how her course in LuAnn University, Scale Your Window Treatment Business to Your 1st Million Dollar Year, can help you get there faster.
“Hiring people carries with it so much responsibility and that responsibility carries with it a great deal of fear.” -Vita Vygovska
“There is no better foundation for anything in your business than an actual written out system and process.” -Vita Vygovska
“That’s what I know to be true of you—not only do you have the experience, but I know that you documented it. That’s what enables the teaching to be significant and of value.” -LuAnn Nigara
Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kravet: Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com
#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million
#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team
#634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire
#448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara
#456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments
#462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1
#471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2
#481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments
#493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success
#512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware
#518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional
#539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely
#551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream
#586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments
#610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions
Today with Kathleen Anderson:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Kat Anderson of Material Design, an interior design business specializing in design-build projects, shares her experience as a recently-graduated interior design student struggling to find her way in the design world. You’ll hear Kat tell how she succeeded by growing her skillset in more than just design. Kat also walks through the classes she teaches at LuAnn University.
Pick it apart:
[12:45] Kat shares why having a good understanding of your bookkeeping also helps with job costing
[17:40] Kat explains why her class benefits both beginner and mature business owners
[31:43] LuAnn explains the difference between the LuAnn University class Design Build 101 and 201
[35:08] Kat shares how she developed the curriculum for Design Build 201
[45:30] Kat shares about how awful her two years in business were
[50:05] LuAnn shares about how she coached Sara Lynn Brennan to develop processes
[53:26] Kat speaks to the designer who wants to establish a process, but has a variety of different projects
LuAnn and Kathleen Anderson’s Ah-Ha moments:
“Your finances are the heartbeat of your business.” - Kathleen Anderson
“It’s the difference between having a life that you love and feeling like when is Starbucks hiring.” - Kathleen Anderson
“An expert in their field is the one who’s made all the mistakes.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Kathleen Anderson
Kathleen Anderson is a designer and entrepreneur delivering full-service interiors, design-build projects, window treatments, and more. With a BA in Interior Design and a Masters Degree in Architecture, she knows first-hand that business knowledge is what completes the trifecta needed to build and run a successful design firm.
Connect with Kathleen Anderson
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Revel Woods: This is one of those vendors you’ll be so happy you took the time to set up an account with. They understand interior designers which makes it so refreshing to work with them to spec amazing wood flooring for your projects. They have a huge selection and are dedicated to helping you become an expert on wood floors. Go to revelwoods.com to learn more about how you can partner with Revel Woods to give your clients beautiful flooring and add profit to your projects.
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Nathan Brookshire and Paul Davidge of Design: Agency & Management share how they help creatives develop a financially sound path to achieve their goals and run their business in such a way that they have the freedom to focus on their zone of genius.
[12:51] LuAnn and guests discuss the criteria to work with Design: Agency and Management
[32:45] Nathan reveals the challenge all his design clients share
[37:27] Nathan shares how he helped a designer negotiate their fee with her client
[39:51] LuAnn recaps DAM’s monthly management/representation service
[44:15] Nathan shares how a designer would introduce DAM and explain their role to their client
“The design industry has not been as successful as some other industries in articulating their value to their client.” - Paul Davidge
“You really need to hone your negotiation skills.” - LuAnn Nigara
“You’ve got to be able to stand up and play the chess game with them.” - LuAnn Nigara
Nathan Brookshire began his career in the finance industry, working as a financier to the Arts & Entertainment industries in Los Angeles upon graduation from Stanford University. As a banker, Nathan structured financing solutions for complex transactions, including fine art acquisitions, TV and film production, and real estate development projects. His banking experience led Nathan’s introduction to the art and design community in Los Angeles, and gave him a strong foundation in understanding the unique business, operating, and financial capital needs of creative companies.
Nathan continued to sharpen his business acumen at such blue chip companies as Barclays Capital, Warner Bros., and Netflix, working in mergers and acquisitions and leading corporate strategic decisions. Having forged deep connections within the art and design space, Nathan left the corporate world to bring institutional-grade financial and strategic advisory services to smaller, creative companies in need of analytical rigor and general business management.
In 2018 Nathan co-founded D:AM to formally represent and manage design talent. Nathan holds a BA from Stanford University and a MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.
Paul Davidge is the co-founder of D:AM as well as the owner of Not So General, a gallery for contemporary design in Los Angeles. Paul has an extensive business and operational background, first having worked as a finance attorney for Sidley Austin law firm working on $1bn+ transactions and then as a business development and strategy executive in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles.
Whilst in entertainment, Paul helped Relativity Media grow in size from less than 15 employees to over 300 in under 5 years. He also worked as Chief Operating Officer for Exclusive Media responsible for the international division of the company. Paul has also advised other production companies as well as high net worth individuals on business development, strategy and growth.
In an environment when creatives are taking responsibility for the own destinies, Paul co-founded D:AM in order to apply his experience to help them manage and grow their own companies and enable them to focus on doing what they love most - creating.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Have you signed up for your trade account with Kravet yet? No minimums on anything. One sofa, one rug, 1 yard of fabric, whatever you need, when you need it. Go to kravet.com and get started. Don't forget to use your one time code at checkout for 10% off any Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim order. AWDB10 at checkout
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Thom Sweeney’s unconventional path to interior design started after a 30-year career in advertising. Thom shares what brought him to design and how he lost his design business before rising again to build something even greater. He also has great advice on salesmanship and how to build meaningful relationships with clients.
[22:45] Thom and LuAnn discuss the importance of design that matches the client’s expectations
[34:18] Thom and LuAnn both shares their respective experiences navigating a failing business
[43:20] LuAnn suggest how to debrief after a failure
[46:49] Thom shares how critical sales skills are to a design business
[51:34] LuAnn shares her advice on sales
“Nothing comes out of the huge failure if we don’t stand up again.” - LuAnn Nigara
“Are there any real, true failures?” - LuAnn Nigara
“Sales is creating a win-win.” - LuAnn NIgara
“Diversity in your client list is critical.” - Thom Sweeney
“You can never take that day you closed your doors and say, ‘I’m done’.” Thom Sweeney
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Mydoma Studio is the place to manage, run and grow your interior design business. Features include - Project Management, a Branded Portal, so when your clients log in, it looks and feels like they are logging into your business, invoicing, Purchase Orders, and Credit Card Payments, Product Management and QB integration and so much more. Start your trial today and see for yourself how much easier it could be to run your design firm. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, we are celebrating the show's 5th Birthday! It is hard to believe that there have been five years of outstanding guests, infinite ah-ha moments, and countless businesses changed. Thank you for coming along for the ride.
As a way to show my gratitude, this episode is all about reflecting on the bigger picture, and ways we can give back, center ourselves, and enrich our minds. Thank you all for choosing to spend your time with me every week.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
The Black Artists and Designer’s Guild
NAMI- NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL HEALTH
5 Books to consider:
The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino
The E-Myth by Michael Gerber
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
What I know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey
As Man Thinketh by James Allen
The Outlander Series by Diana Gabaldon
Today with Ashley Connell:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today we’re going to talk about one of those key things you have to do in your business if you want to grow—outsourcing. We all know we need to do it, but finding the right fit is a major challenge. Ashley Connell of Prowess runs a business that matches you with your perfect fit business manager or employee. She’s sharing with us how she makes those perfect fits and the impact it can have on your business.
Pick it apart:
LuAnn and Ashley Connell’s Ah-Ha moments:
“When a designer wants to stay in his/her land of creativity, there’s a need for that other person that’s paying attention to everything that happens under the operations umbrella as opposed to being the executor of the operations umbrella.” -LuAnn Nigara
“We’re not just matching based on the skills you need, but also your behavior styles, your communication style, and your personality.” -Ashley Connell
“I believe that it is very hard to effectively manage a 2-3 million dollar firm without a strong business manager.” -LuAnn Nigara
“By staying in your lane you’re more efficient. It has been proven that if you outsource, you increase your productivity by between 10-100 percent.” -Ashley Connell
More About Ashley Connell:
Ashley Connell, CEO and Founder of Prowess, is one part fearless entrepreneur, one part fearless women’s advocate. For the first 15 years of her career, she was an award-winning tech marketer in both Austin and London. Ashley’s unstoppable drive to have both a career and time for family motivated her to start Prowess. Her commitment to changing the lives of overloaded employers, women seeking rewarding work, and those affected by the gender pay gap, has landed her thought leadership pieces in Forbes, Built in Austin and at SXSW. In her pretty much non-existent spare time she enjoys yoga, walks with her bulldog, cheering on her beloved Longhorns, and spaghetti and meatballs.
Connect with Ashley Connell:
What's new with LuAnn Nigara
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Kirsch has just unveiled their new Briza Motorization feature to give your clients control of their draperies from anywhere. They’re easy to install and compatible with third-party home systems, and they are available on all of Kirsch’s most popular drapery tracks. Visit Kirsch.com today to learn more.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#525 Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success
#554 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit
#450 Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design
#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team
#589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million
Today with Mina Duque:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Can you imagine starting your firm in a foreign city—one where you have no connections, no network, and where you haven’t even visited? That’s exactly what Mina Duque ended up doing. Today, she’s sharing her story of how she started her business in Tulum, the unique challenges presented by working in a major melting pot, and how she grew her business even without a community and network.
Pick it apart:
LuAnn and Mina Duque’s Ah-Ha moments:
“We do that all the time in business...we say to our vendors, ‘Just give it to me straight, I need to know.’ But you’re saying as a culture, that’s not likely to happen. It’s so deeply engrained...and to them, there’s a level of respect in not saying a boldfaced no.” -LuAnn Nigara
“I always tell my vendors, I so prefer that if you think that something is going to take two weeks, tell me it’s going to take four weeks, because if you deliver sooner, I’m happy, but if you deliver later, I’m not happy.” -Mina Duque
“We get really good at visualizing, but that’s not everyone’s forte. So something that sounds really good or looks good on paper, when you see it in real life, you’re like, ‘I’m not really crazy about that.’” -Mina Duque
“It builds so much more trust and confidence in my client when I can show them everything in advance before they start spending money.” -Mina Duque
More About Mina Duque:
Mina, the principal designer at Interiors Tulum, founded the firm in early 2019. Her style is influenced by her unique background growing up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Mina grew up between Casablanca, Morocco and Los Angeles, California. Her degree from USC, along with her world travels and experience as a property manager for Airbnb’s, influence her design and decision-making process every step of the way. Her Moroccan background adds a unique accent to her designs blended with the relaxed, Caribbean bohemian vibe that she works with so often. She is an ambitious, driven woman, enjoys research, suffers little risk adversity, and celebrates exploring new cultures and ideas. Now with her business expanding she has a few employees and is striving to create a company culture that reflects her values of honesty, reliability, authenticity, and passion. Working with people from different backgrounds and celebrating their cultures energizes Mina as she loves to learn about their history and discover ways that she can help them enhance their lifestyle by designing relaxing and luxurious living spaces. Currently based in Tulum, Mexico, Mina lives with her husband, Fernando, and their high-energy rescue pup, Lulu.
Connect with Mina Duque:
What's new with LuAnn Nigara
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Revel Woods: Revel Woods is dedicated to providing premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and needs. They offer a wide range of perks for perks we offer interior designers, contractors, & industry professionals. Visit revelwoods.com today to get started.
Kravet: Kravet is the industry leader in to the trade home furnishings. You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcoverings.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design
#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years
Today with LuAnn:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another riveting episode of “What Would Lu Do?”, where you ask the difficult questions and LuAnn gives the expert answers you’ve been wanting.
Today, LuAnn gives her expert advise on what to do when a client won't pay. Is there something more you can do to protect yourself?
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kirsch is reliable, dependable and innovative so think of them when you need to specify drapery hardware. From the motorized Briza collection, to the recently updated Buckingham collection to the tried and true architectural collections, go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.
Jamie Lieberman: #547 and #454
Today with Carley Page Summers:
Carley Page Summers shares her journey to interior design that began only after she first built a robust photography business catering to the design trade. 184k Instagram followers strong, Carley chronicles how just nine years ago, she pulled herself out of a dark place, found hope, and is now on a mission to inspire hope in others.
Pick it apart:
[2:49] Carley shares her journey from photographer to designer
[7:34] Carley shares her philosophy about the attraction to natural settings
[11:50] Carley shares how she started her virtual design business
[18:53] Carley shares her Instagram strategy
[42:56] Charley shares her mission statement
LuAnn and Carley Page Summers' Ah-Ha moments:
“Lift as you climb.” - Carley Page Summers
“The world would say I’m a failure...but it goes to show that you can set your mind to something and hope and grow.” - Carley Page Summers
“It is useless to look back on your path and feel shame. Instead, see the accomplishment and joy you have created.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Carley Page Summers:
Photography has been a passion of mine since a young age and is not just my career path but is also part of my soul. During an especially difficult time in my life, while living & volunteering in Haiti, I was inspired by the culture and all the people around me and was able to use photography as a way to help narrate their stories. After returning home, I studied art and graduated with a fine arts degree with a focus in photography and painting. Interiors and design became an interest turned passion and naturally there was a union of the two things that inspired me, photography and interiors.
With interior photography, I am able to help clients and brands narrate their stories. Clients have the benefit of being able to choose full-service options with my packages because they include creative, styling and photography all in one.
Additionally with interiors, I love helping create a truly sacred space for clients and their loved ones to enjoy. I love a mixture of curated textiles, clean whites, and of course plants to make a space feel peaceful yet full of life. With my interior styling services, I hope to not only style a space but also to document it for others to see so they can also be inspired.
Connect with Carley Page Summers
What's new with LuAnn Nigara
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
At Mydoma Studio they are always iterating to continually serve you better, and more intuitively. Mydoma Studio is the best place to manage your interior design projects easily and efficiently. Everything from mood board creation, invoicing, QuickBooks integration, and vendor and client communication within the specific project the communication. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbuisness for the special offers they have for you as a listener of this podcast.
Today with Vita Vygovska
For Window Treatment Friday, LuAnn and Vita conduct a live coaching session around a big issue that so many businesses encounter when they scale—clients wanting you on their project, not your staff. Listen to see how LuAnn advises Vita and prepares her to eliminate her problem with confidence and some carefully chosen words.
LuAnn and Vita's Aha-Moments
“Having the combination of a virtual hug and a little bit of a whip is very unique.” - Vita Vygovska
“If you only get comfort, then you don’t learn how to avoid that the next time.” - LuAnn Nigara
“If I don’t press you and urge you to find the place where only you could have changed the outcome, you’re destined to repeat it.” - LuAnn Nigara
“We can go back and own the moment.” - LuAnn Nigara
Picking It Apart
[11:34] LuAnn shares why we could all benefit from coaching
[16:13] Vita shares the struggle she is having in her business
[19:17] LuAnn gives an example of how she solves the same problem at Window Works
[26:02] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a nuance of her original struggle
[30:08] Vita asks LuAnn to help her solve a second nuance of her original struggle
[38:37] LuAnn shares a funny story about what happened when she didn’t take her own advice
Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kirsch is a reliable go to resource for all of your drapery hardware needs. Have you heard about all of the features Kirsch has built into their motorized Briza rod? Let me tell you a few:
Motor mounts to the back of the track which allows a seamless look if you have motorized and cord or baton traverse rods in the same room.
The Drapery fabrication specs do not need to change between cord or baton controlled draperies and motorized draperies-- this is nice- cuts down on errors--- ask me how I know--lol
No additional returns or any special instructions-- also very nice feature
Limits are set automatically after installation
Remote control is radio frequency and easily pairs with the motor
Tug feature; when drapery is pulled the motor will traverse the drapery
New Neo Smart Controller allows for easy integration with third party home systems.
So go to Kirsch.com today, find the dealer in your area and learn how Kirsch can help you on your next window treatment project.
Today with Beth Diana Smith
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, we welcome Beth Diana Smith back to the show! Beth was last on the show over a year ago, and since then she’s made some major changes to her processes and her business. She’s going to take us through those changes, the way she revamped her processes, and what she’s looking to do in the future. We’re also diving into diversity and inclusivity in the industry, and what all of us can do to contribute and be better allies.
Pick it apart
LuAnn and Beth Diana Smith's “Ah-Ha” Moments
“I’m always saying to all the designers I work with and coach, and my own team, ‘Ok, so this stinks, this went wrong, but where can you personally wind this back where you could have changed the outcome.’ And there’s always a place, even if 15 other people along the way also made a mistake or dropped the ball.” -LuAnn Nigara
“I always want to make sure that my client feels excited because that’s how I want them to feel throughout the process.” -Beth Diana Smith
“That moment where I was able to transform something so drastically and people were able to see it throughout the entire house—it was great content.” -Beth Diana Smith
“I want people to realize that your silence is just as bad as the person that is the racist, because you are enabling their behavior.” -Beth Diana Smith
More About Beth Diana Smith
After more than a decade in accounting and finance at companies like Viacom and Johnson & Johnson, Beth Diana Smith left the corporate world to launch her own interior design firm. Her eye for aesthetics paired with her project management experience culminates in a truly unique approach to design. Her signature style is modern and eclectic with luxurious finishes and custom furnishings. Each vignette is a functioning art installation in its own right. Above all, her work is client-centric as she helps each homeowner hone in on their own style and create a space that inspires them and enhances their lifestyle. Beth’s goal for each project is to elevate the lives of her clients by first elevating their daily environment.
Beth holds a MBA and a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. She is a member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, the House Beautiful Advisory Council, and the New York School of Interior Design Task Force on Diversity. And Beth’s work has been on NBC and HGTV, and featured in various outlets including House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Real Simple, Lonny Magazine, and the Business of Home.
Connect with Beth Diana Smith
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor
Mydoma Studio is the complete designer toolkit—a place for you to manage all of your projects, from time tracking to communication to product approvals. Mydoma can help you free your time up to focus on your business and serve your clients. You can get 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#439 Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations
#184 Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm
#06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward
#573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something
Stop the turnover in your business! Listen in as Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, and a leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations guides us through a simple (not easy) and actionable process of hiring, training, and retaining top staff.
[16:52] Jessica reviews week 1: Process
[25:31] LuAnn reviews how she would use Shadowing at Window Works
[29:35] Jessics reviews week 2: Product/Services
[33:05] Jessica reviews week 3: Paperwork and Pricing
[37:58] Jessica reviews week 4: People
[47:35] LuAnn and Jessica review how to set goals for non-sales role such as Office Administrator
“It would be easier to train somebody in the papertrail process if they actually had been physically through the full process.” - LuAnn
Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Kirsch is a valuable partner to you, the interior designer, as well as to us, window treatment professionals. More than 100 years of innovation in design and technology, creating beautiful as well as functional drapery hardware for any window application you can imagine. Curved rods, ripplefold rods, decorative rods, had draw rods, cord draw rods, motorized rods...when I say everything you need, I do mean everything. Go to Kirsch.com to find a dealer near you.
Janelle Photopoulos on episode 364
Joni Vanderslice on episode 101
Today with Joyce Downing Pickens:
LA interior designer, Joyce Downing Pickens of JDP Interiors used to intern for Nathan Turner and now she’s running her own design business. Joyce shares how she got amazing press as a #babydesigner, what helped her not fear an empty pipeline, and what she’s rethinking as she graduates to her sixth year in business.
Pick it apart:
[21:31] Joyce shares about the press needing content
[22:03] Joyce shares advice from Nathan Turner about submitting projects to press
[36:50] Joyce shares about how her rates have changed since she started her business
[45:57] Joyce shares about her mindset surrounding her pipeline and plans for a shift in the next year
[49:20] Joyce shares her ideas about the scalability of interior design and her interest in product design
LuAnn and Joyce Downing Pickens’s Ah-Ha moments:
“The best learning experience is working for yourself. You have to juggle so many hats and you learn quicker than learning underneath someone.” - Joyce Downing Pickens
More About Joyce Downing Pickens:
Joyce is a Los Angeles based interior designer and owner of JDP Interiors. After traveling throughout her childhood, Joyce's love of design was born. She strives to create beautiful, comfortable and textural spaces, while providing her clients with superior customer service and project management. She continually collects and curates to achieve the perfect blend between vintage and modern and consistently enjoys watching her visions come to life - there's nothing better than a good "before and after"!
Connect with Joyce Downing Pickens:
What's new with LuAnn Nigara
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Kravet has sponsored our show from the very beginning and is a designer's go-to source for excellent fabrics, trims, and accessories. Get 10% off at Kravet.com when you use coupon code AWDB10. And our friends at Kravet Inc. are committed to ensuring a safe, sanitary, and secure experience for you, in all their showrooms and locations. Kravet promises to serve you from a distance by adhering to CDC guidelines and by taking extra precautions. Their warehouses are open and operational, so that means Kravet is ready to ship your orders quickly and efficiently! Visit www.kravet.com for more information and to book an in-person or virtual appointment with your sales rep.
Today with John Dupra:
John Dupra, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Revel Woods returns to the show to walk us through how designers can offer a valuable service to their clients and increase their project profit by becoming a flooring expert. Revel Woods is known for catering to the design trade by offering substantial training, concierge level service and customizable flooring options that allow interior designers to confidently include flooring in their new-build and renovation projects.
Pick it apart:
[41:26] John and LuAnn discuss how to work around the builder so you can spec the flooring
[55:28] John reviews how the flooring selector on his website works
[1:06:07] John explains how Revel Woods has disrupted the flooring industry’s retail model
[1:08:13] LuAnn recaps the value Revel Woods bring to the designer
[1:13:09] John explains the initial education and guidance needed to specify flooring
[1:21:34] LuAnn recaps the main benefits Revel Woods offers to designers
LuAnn and John Dupra’s Ah-Ha moments:
“Revel Woods is a hyper-personalized concierge service.” - John Dupra
“For projects that designers have flooring in, the designer should be the conduit for that industry.” - John Dupra
“This is an area where there’s money left on the table.” - John Dupra
More About John Dupra:
John Dupra (pronounced DU-pray)’s father Craig started in the wood flooring business before John was born as an installer and refinisher, which he did for 24 years before eventually opening his own wholesale wood flooring distribution company in Rochester, NY.
John grew up helping his father when not in school before taking a job for Saint-Gobain, a large materials manufacturing company that made sundries for the flooring industry. He traveled the country as a sales engineer working with flooring contractors for eight years before deciding to join the family business in wholesale distribution.
It was there John saw the need to evolve the industry, by evolving its sales channels. If the correct platform was built, designers would be just as integral a part of the flooring industry as flooring stores. Making flooring a lucrative avenue for the designer, while providing a better experience to their clients. Revel Woods is that platform. Now designers are empowered to add flooring to their projects in a way that’s never been seen before.
John has been featured in a number of publications, and has been a guest on a wide range of podcasts including being recognized in Hardwood Floors Magazine’s first ever 40 under 40: https://hardwoodfloorsmag.com/2017/10/02/hardwood-floors-magazine-introduces-first-ever-40-40/
His favorite podcast to be on is A Well Designed Business and he doesn’t care who knows it.
Connect with John Dupra:
Other Shows Mentioned:
Corey Damen Jenkins #549 #388 #127
Deborah DiMare #117 #82
Kristen Scott Thomas #314
Ashleigh Esprit #136
Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for opportunities, and smart enough to iterate when something isn’t working. Ariella shares about how she got her start and what she did to differentiate herself and build success in the design/build world.
[13:44] Ariella shares about how builders tried to keep her from working with other builders
[16:08] Ariella shares about her confidence and learning curve working with builders early in her career
[23:30] Ariella shares how she built her team and created spec books
[26:04] Ariella shares how and why she charges clients hourly
[40:14] Ariella shares advice for designers interested in working with builders
[43:49] LuAnn has an “aha” moment about how Ariella’s personality and work ethic attracts clients with similar personalities
“It’s not easy. To get here, you have to put in the hard work.” - Ariella Horowitz
“You have to be willing to put in the time and work really hard.” - Ariella Horowitz
As founder and principal designer of AH Design Group, Ariella Horowitz oversees all the design that makes its way into our clients' beautiful homes. Over the years, Ariella has designed countless chic, sophisticated and innovative interiors and exteriors. Her meticulous and thoughtful approach ensures that she makes a statement in every space. Her eye for detail and dedication to perfection is evident in each room she touches, leaving her mark wherever she goes. Ariella takes her motto, "Design with Distinction" into play when designing each and every space. Every home Ariella designs is unique and custom to itself.
AH Design Group, located in Northern NJ, is a full-service interior and exterior design firm specializing in new constructions, full renovations and custom homes. Unlike many other design firms, we take a hands-on approach and check-in at our projects on a regular basis to ensure everything is being done correctly and to perfection. Because we don't subscribe to one specific design aesthetic, we are able to envision and conceptualize projects ranging across the full spectrum from modern to transitional to traditional. With extensive knowledge of the construction process, we get involved in the very early stages from the architectural planning to the framing process. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, developers, and industry professionals to deliver a vision that is on time and within budget, while simultaneously meeting our clients' lifestyle needs and design aesthetic.
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Mydoma Studio is here to help if you want to learn the process for designing kitchens. Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar, on January 20th, 2020 will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021. Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.
Christina Bruce #486
Natasa Jones #570
Judith Neary and Corey Classen #449
Brad Leavitt #542, #560, #580, and #615
Today with Jessica Delaney
Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and story and an opportunity to see and be seen. Jessica shares how she got started in her business by reaching out to bloggers, designers, and press professionals she met during networking events and everywhere else possible.
Pick It Apart
[19:06] Jessica talks about networking as a photographer
[25:36] Jessica remind us of the value of local press
[32:45] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the purpose of Jessica’s digital platform
[43:44] Jessica reminds us about photography usage rights and compensation
LuAnn and Jessica Delaney's "Ah-Ha" Moments
“Never be embarrassed of where you have to start - just start somewhere.” - Jessica Delaney
“You never know where your next business partner will come from.” - Jessica Delaney
“Things snowball - you never really know where it’s going to lead.” - Jessica Delaney
More about Jessica Delaney
I’m an interiors and architectural photographer, and one-third of BijOU Magazine. I’m the lady behind the lens most days since I don’t love having my own photo was taken (ironic, I know!). Lover of music (give me Mumford, JayZ, show tunes, Elvis, and all in between), cooking, podcasts + yoga.
I’ve specialized in interiors + design photography since my first paying client booked me Jan 20, 2013, and has been a dear friend and loyal client since. I’ve photographed the spaces of award-winning designers and believe each space has a personality and story to tell of a life well-lived. My work has been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, New England Home, Domino, Cottages and Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Design New England, Decor Maine, South Shore Home, Life + Style, The Boston Globe, and Canada’s The Globe and Mail.
In September of 2018, we launched BijOU Magazine, and since then have been delivering “Small Stories of Big Design”. We strive to be the digital publication for inspired interiors and lifestyle stories, delivered with wit, substance + style.
When not behind the camera, in front of the computer (or stove) I can be found galavanting in Milton, MA with my three daughters, one husband, and one new pandemic puppy.
Connect with Jessica Delaney
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
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Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
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Revel Woods is a great company and a great source for hardwood and resilient flooring. And they also simplify the selection process with their online tool that is basically your digital advisor in flooring selection. Take a listen to episodes 329 and 452 to see why I’m so excited about his company. Set up your trade account by going to revelwoods.com/pro-account.
Today with Sarah Von Dreele
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing wallcoverings, fabrics, and textiles. She relied on her branding background, her relationships, and her own talents as she launched her line. She’s sharing the lessons she learned along the way and how her business is shifting for the future.
Pick it apart
LuAnn and Sarah’s “Ah-Ha” Moments
“When your life blows up, everything is out of control, and you actually have to live with that and adjust to that. That life experience, in addition, to the professional experiences I had really helped me navigate starting a new business in a completely different way.” -Sarah
“That is one of the toughest decisions we face as business owners—that hurdle of when to hire. We all know intellectually that when you hire your business will grow and the revenue will grow, because you’ve taken yourself away from activities that are not your highest money-generating activities. But internally, you go ‘That’s a lot of dollar bills though!’” -LuAnn
“When you package it and you talk about your brand story, and you figure out where your niche is, and your marketplace is—that’s how you breakthrough in the sea of all the other wallpaper companies. And for you to have had that skillset yourself, I’m sure was a nice leg up.” -LuAnn
“When I am painting, the work is so iterative, and one leads to the next, but then it starts to shift. When I can recognize that it shifts in a negative way and things start to look muddy and with no direction, it’s over. You got the best of it.” -Sarah
More About Sarah Von Dreele
Sarah Von Dreele has spent much of her professional life as a branding consultant, employing her strong visual communication methods to facilitate large and small-scale branding campaigns for over the last twenty years. What began as a simple creative exercise at the end of the day quickly evolved into a collection of surface designs, painted exclusively in gouache. Her latest works explore repetition of abstracted floral and geometric forms, which are ethereal and calm, and lend themselves to a variety of applications for the curated home. Sarah Von Dreele's line of bespoke wallcoverings and textiles are available to the trade through Hewn Showroom in San Francisco, Lepere in New York City, and Twill and Texture in Miami. Sarah received a BFA in Graphic Design from Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Between developing new products, painting what she sees, and keeping up with her fourth-grader, she patiently pursues her interest in learning the French language.
Connect with Sarah Von Dreele
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Kirsch is always at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They have been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. Kirsch is dedicated to providing great resources to educate the design community about their product. Go to kirsch.com to find out more.
Mydoma Studio: Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business - and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you!
This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021.
Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.
Get kitchen project confidence at 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready!
Other Shows Mentioned:
#77 Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business
#125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!
#466 Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?
#39 Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm
Today with Ginna Christensen
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business®! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But that work starts with discovering their values. Today, Ginna shares with me why discovering and staying true to your values is integral to your business, and what you can do to identify those values and incorporate them into what you do.
Pick it apart
LuAnn and Ginna Christensen's “Ah-Ha” Moments
“You don’t have to be like someone else in order to be successful. You can be who you are. And not only can you be who you are, but it’s vital to your success.” -Ginna
“The reason we go into what their values are is because your values help you make the right decisions.” -Ginna
“When it’s a hard decision in your business, it’s ‘Well, does this align with what I said my mission and my values were?’ And if it doesn’t, then no matter how shiny, how pretty, how attractive, how lucrative it might be, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just a no.” -LuAnn
“The best salesperson in the world is uncovering the win for the other person. That’s the sale. It’s figuring out what the other person really needs and wants and providing it for them.” -LuAnn
“When our values are being honored, things are going well for us. When things are not going well, that’s an indicator that our values are not being honored.” -Ginna
More About Ginna Christensen
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ginna Christensen, the daughter of two entrepreneurs, grew up knowing that innovation and the arts would play a central role in her professional and personal life.
Ginna started her career in the fashion industry, working in merchandising and marketing for Giorgio Armani, Ellen Tracy, and Emanuel Ungaro. Her attention moved to art and interiors in early 2000 when she joined the team at T.I. Industries, a company that manufactured wood moulding for the picture frame and furniture industries. Starting as the company's North East Regional Business Development Manager, Ginna quickly grew into a more creative role designing product, as well as the company’s trade show displays.
Ginna’s career shifted once again when she moved to Los Angeles in 2004 and got her start in the rug business with Aga John. As the VP of Sales and Product Development, she helped reinvigorate the high-end rug company, forging deals with companies like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home.
In September of 2013, Christensen joined the Los Angeles-based team at Woven as Creative Director. In her three-plus years with the company, she implemented programming, produced events, and created business development strategies which resulted in increased sales revenues, regional and national press coverage, and the launch of Woven at Design Within Reach.
Recognized for her cool and creative solutions to the challenges that modern businesses face, as well as for her willingness to give back to the design community, Christensen was asked to join the West Hollywood Design District Board in 2016 and was quickly appointed chair. In her
two plus years as chairwoman, she helped rebuild the board, lead the board through a complete rebrand, and restructured programming to insure that all members benefitted.
As a result of her work with the Design District and the experience she gained in working with a variety of brands and businesses, Christensen launched her own business in 2017. GC Collaborative launched as a boutique consulting firm and has transitioned into business coaching specializing in helping creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace, build a foundation for their brand, and create a roadmap to transform them into STANDOUTS in their field.
While Ginna now calls NYC home, the creative works with clients all over the country.
Connect with Ginna Christensen
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
Kravet is here for you during these challenging times. They’ve been around for 102 years and want you to know you can trust them to securely process your orders and keep your deposits safe. Take advantage of Kravet Inc’s extensive digital tools and set up a virtual appointment with your local sales representative by logging in to kravet.com.
Article is the best way to buy beautiful modern furniture, and their trade program offers discounts and specialized support. Their team of industry professionals is dedicated to helping you get your projects done, from sourcing and design to invoicing and delivery. Go to article.com to get started today.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#552 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I’m Good, Right?
#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry
#594 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles
#516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand
#613 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions
Today with Julia Miller:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more questions. On today’s episode, I chat with Julia Miller of j. millers interiors, as she shares how she tackled those questions and made the decisions that let her business evolve and thrive.
Pick it apart:
LuAnn and Julia Miller’s Ah-Ha moments:
“I never let myself believe that I could ever make a career change until I had the personal experience and the validation from people that I didn’t know on Instagram.” -Julia
“So often, any business that we do, or any career, whether it’s interior design or whatever it is, we can fall into the trap of not placing enough value on what we’re going to charge because we’re new at it.” -LuAnn
“It was definitely a process of trying to figure out how many projects I needed at what rate and how many hours to make my ends meet financially. Part of that is knowing your worth and being able to charge for that, but also knowing how many hours it realistically takes you to do a project.” -Julia
“I think there’s a lot of scarcity mindset in this business, and I think for people who don’t have a business mindset, there’s a lot of fear.” -Julia
“When you say to me ‘I’ve never had somebody say I won’t pay you ahead of time,’ the only reason is because they haven’t been left with any questions. There’s absolutely no uncertainty in their minds what happens if they give you this money now. You’ve answered all the questions, and that comes from having that enunciated process, and having the confidence to express that process.” -LuAnn
More About Julia Miller:
j. miller interiors is a Minneapolis based residential interior design studio committed to creating carefully curated spaces with the highest level of craftsmanship. j. miller interiors focuses on developing homes that are reflections of the clients who live in them through expertly selected fixtures, finishes and furnishings. Through our collaborative, transparent process, we work with clients to create a home they love. j miller interiors serves clients locally in the Twin Cities and across the country through our signature distance design service.
Connect with Julia Miller:
What's new with LuAnn Nigara
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:
Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit. Their workflow software keeps your design projects organized from beginning to end. They also offer a thriving design community so you’re never on your own. You can get started with Mydoma at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.
At Monogram, it’s all about the details that come together to create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed for you. Their trade professionals program helps educate you on the details and nuances that you need to understand so you can bring the best to your clients and share those details effectively. Become a trade partner today at monogram.com/luann.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching
#601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game
#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years
#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design
#522 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained
#464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner
#349 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA
#547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills
#454 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal – Lawyers That Speak Designer
#149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee
#566 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss
#412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience