Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Monica Sharma-Patnekar, Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO and owner of Business with Monica. We are deep-diving into how to attract your REAL audience, the ones who actually respond to your brand messaging and marketing. Monika explains how to find out what attracted your clients to you. What it was that made them choose you over your competition, what resonated with them in your messaging, and how to keep doing it to get even more clients.
[10:26] LuAnn and Monica discuss the importance of even as things change in the market, the key is always knowing who you are reaching out to.
[12:30] The multiple ways that you can determine who your “real” customers are over your “ideal” customers.
[17:00] How designers can ask their clients to have conversations about their business after their service.
[23:03] What to do with our marketing once we know how we obtain our “real” clients.
[25:30] Monica gives us a concrete example of one of her client’s success.
[32:43] Monica runs through her four D’s; Desires over Demographics Framework.
“When talking about customer interviews, remember that people love helping people. They appreciate being seen and heard.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar
“The key is finding out how you serve your ‘real’ clients at every touchpoint.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar
“A brand is a feeling and how you make your customers feel at every step of their journey.” - Monica Sharma-Patnekar
Monica is Brand & Marketing Strategist and Fractional CMO, helping you to elevate your brand. As a customer-centric marketing strategist Monica gives high-touch mentorship for creative business owners who want a clearer, more focused, vision for their brand. To communicate & connect with their REAL audience, without spinning their wheels on messaging, content, ads & tactics that don’t convert. So that they can impact even more people’s lives with their products and services – and feel like they have control over their own.
For Conscious business owners who care about the 5 “P”s (Product, Purpose, People, Planet, & Profit).
Monica has over 18 years of experience building brands. From her masters in business with a major in Marketing, to working with Fortune500 companies, across Brand Management, Strategy Consulting & Global Marketing, being hired by Google to coach their premium partners and now working with both larger conscious scale-ups and her passion, coaching creative entrepreneurs.
Monica is Dutch by birth. Indian by heritage. Global by choice & education. An intuitive, creative & analytical thinker. A dancer. A chai-fanatic. Raised by a single mom in a country that she made her own. A mom of 2 girls.
She brings a diverse & inclusive perspective to the work she does. From having worked with big corporates, scale & start-ups to small businesses, across regions & sectors, to her own very multicultural upbringing.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
AWDB #36: Susan Brunstrum- Practical Advice for Project Management
AWDB: #125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!
AWDB: #317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen
AWDB: #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?
As creatives, we're often expected to wear multiple hats, and today's conversation with Kylie Tyrrell, an interior designer turned mentor, lifts the veil on the exciting, challenging, and rewarding world of design and coaching.
Kylie is a seasoned interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love!
“Action builds confidence” - Kylie Tyrrell
Kylie Tyrrell is a seasoned Interior designer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her love for the industry has led her to mentor and guide the next generation of interior designers. She is passionate about helping women in the industry gain confidence and make money doing what they love. She runs a mentor program called Interiors Insider where she supports and nurtures new and existing designers to thrive. The exact program she wished existed when she was starting out.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#6 Erika Ward: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the power of outsourcing. But if you’ve outsourced before, or if you’re just considering it, you also know that it comes with its own set of headaches—from figuring out what you need to hiring to onboarding.
My guests today Shayna Pellino and Evelyn Roberts, creators of 4D Biz, understand that very well. 4D Biz is essentially a virtual team for interior designers, providing the strategy, the marketing, the admin, and even design support at the level you need for your business. Learn how their set up supports designers and why a virtual team might be right for you!
[1:02] Shayna shares her design story and how the mistakes she made led to 4Dbiz.
[17:00] Evelyn and Shayna begin to discuss the 4 pillars of support 4Dbiz offers for designers.
[19:46] Shayna and Evelyn break down how they offer business development help to designers
[24:08] Evelyn and Shayna unpack how a virtual marketing team for designers works.
[37:35] Evelyn and Shayna discuss the ways 4Dbiz offers design assistance.
[42:46] Shayna and Evelyn talk about admin support for interior designers.
“The business can suck the soul out of you if you are overworked, if you are not getting the money that you deserve and you are just putting in endless hours and you're not feeling it in your bank account.” -Shayna
“This new way of doing business is I'm all about it because every single person that works for me has a skill set in an expertise that has been identified as their superpower.” -LuAnn
About Shayna:
Shayna Rose is the CEO and Founder of both Shayna Rose Interiors and 4Dbiz. Shayna never expected to create the modern business model that would change the way interior designers run their business! 4Dbiz was born out of her own experience, failures, successes, and needs as an interior designer/business owner.
After working in the interior design industry for three years, Shayna knew she had to set out on her own. Working for someone else, Shayna was astounded by the unnecessary obstacles that she was working with - from overly-extended lead times, to a lack of custom solutions, to poor service all along the supply chain. She truly felt she had no choice but to start her own business and revolutionize the industry standard.
In 2017, Shayna Rose Interiors was born, followed by 4Dbiz in 2019. Shayna’s guiding principle is “Everyone wins.” She is most inspired by what other people see as problems. She is a solution-oriented visionary, hell bent on changing people’s lives with her ideas and execution - starting with the design industry.
About Evelyn:
Evelyn Roberts is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of 4Dbiz. After 4 years working in digital marketing for small businesses and tech startups, Evelyn joined Shayna Rose Interiors in 2019. Since then, she has been focused exclusively on marketing for interior designers.
Working with design businesses all over the country, she helps interior designers refine their brand, create concise and powerful messaging, optimize for search engines, and set up automations that save time and achieve results.
Evelyn’s philosophy for marketing in the interior design industry is “less is more.” Understanding the hectic interior designer/business owner lifestyle, she helps designers hone in on the marketing initiatives that will make measurable progress toward their most critical business goals, within their budget.
Client testimonial, Hannah Lowe Interiors
Client testimonial, Leone Interior Designs
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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. There are many designers out there looking to grow and scale their businesses, whether they’re coming in from a different career or launching their own firm. But what if you are working your business as a side hustle—and you actually want to keep it that way?
That’s the situation for my guest today, Cory Simon of 290 Eliot Interiors. She’s working a full-time job, keeping a healthy business on the side, and spending time with her family—all within the same 24 hours a day we all have! You might be wondering how that’s possible—and the answer comes down to efficiency.
This is a must-listen if you are juggling your interior design job as a side hustle, or if you simply want to work less hours and get more done!
[3:02] Cory shares her schedule (and how she manages to run the business working just a couple of hours a day on it!)
[8:27] Cory gives an insight into how planning and communication keep her efficient.
[24:18] LuAnn and Cory discuss how communication and client expectations matter even more when your business is a side hustle.
[33:08] Cory and LuAnn talk about the importance of saying no to the wrong client (and how to do it respectfully).
[47:42] Cory shares how viewing the client through an emotional lens helps her understand them and create a better experience for everyone.
“There is an emotional element that it is an emotional roller coaster and you're excited and you're frustrated. And every time you turn a corner people want more money. And so I think sometimes we have to really remember the emotional aspect of a renovation because people aren't just saying things, to say things. They're on an emotional journey, as well as kind of the physical journey of their home.” -Cory
“If we could just understand that the job that you say yes to that you know doesn't have the right budget is probably going to take you longer to do and you will actually earn less money at the end when you do the autopsy if you are present enough to do the autopsy of the project. And if you had just said no, you would have either put more energy into a current project and made it that much better or had the time available for a new client to come through the door. But saying yes to the wrong things is rarely a good idea.” -LuAnn
Cory Simon found her love of interior design through merchandising retail stores for over 15 years. She took her years of experience in space planning, using color and texture, and her ability to focus on the details to bring a space to life and started applying it to residential design. Starting with her own homes, varying in style and layout, along with planning and consulting on projects with friends and family, Cory loves finding the potential in every space to create something that you will reflect your personal style. Her experience in design, planning, and project management will help translate your goals into a reality.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#909 Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss
#913 Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Importance of Money Mindset in Charging Your Worth
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Danielle Hendon, owner of 4 Corners CFO. Don’t worry, Danielle is one of those CFO’s who explains money in an understandable way to us “non-finance” people. She shares her six-part framework she uses with her clients, to handling their finances. She and her team offer calculations, information, and tools in an understandable way so then you can do what you want to do with your business.
Danielle has the technical knowledge and over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs, and she’s ready to spill the tea. Enjoy!
[3:42] Danielle starts to walk us through her six part framework for handling your finances.
[14:50] The importance of charging enough for your services.
[16:30] The expense part of Danielle’s framework.
[25:50] Step four of her framework; budget.
[32:03] LuAnn and Danielle talk about step five in the framework, comparing your budget to your actuals
[35:34] The three components of cash that will never show up in your budget.
“When I start looking at revenue and expense with my client, we are going to talk to the bookkeeper and rearrange some things because when you pull up your statements, you should know what they mean,” Danielle Hendon
“Budget is just a plan forward for your business. We take everything we learned in the previous steps and build out a budget for the rest of the year,” Danielle Hendon
Hi! I’m Danielle Hendon – wife, mom, and Virtual CFO to small business owners.
I empower business owners to pay themselves what they’re worth and continue to put more profit in their pocket every year. I do this by helping business owners understand what their financial numbers are and WHY the numbers move. Armed with that understanding, you can take intentional steps to grow your profits.
I bring over a decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting to small businesses on a scale that fits their budget and their needs. My education and certification (as a CPA) gave me the technical knowledge. Using those skills on the job, taught me that accounting and finance is about so much more than numbers. It’s about the people. I LOVE numbers…but I have a genuine passion for people.
When my previous employer closed their doors and severed all the employees, I knew it was time to take my knowledge and passion to the people that needed it most. After helping that big business walk the path of bankruptcy until they were small… and eventually closed… I KNOW how to make big financial concepts fit small business. I started 4 Corners CFO to help business owners take a step back from the burnout, pay themselves what they’re worth, and focus on their joy and reason for serving their clients. This business has given me the opportunity to make a difference in the world because instead of helping big corporations increase share price, I get to help small business owners increase their livelihoods and legacies. And THAT is the best part of running this business <3
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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 Well-Designed Business. Today I have with me Kate Figler, of Kate Figler Interiors. After moving her firm from the northeast to Nashville, Kate exponentially rebuilt and expanded her clientele and became a well-established design name. Kate has this motto that I was excited to dive into with her that can hint: increase your success and profitability.
Listen, to my chat with Kate on the beneficial meaning of “Begin Where You Mean To Go.”
[1:51] Kate explains what she means by “Begin as you mean to go.”
[13:55] How Kate developed her processes and procedures off the bat.
[18:00] Kate’s advice in handling client onboarding.
[29:55] Explaining to the client that things may happen, but giving them comfort that you are prepared for anything and in control.
[37:40] Make sure your clients know that you respect the trades.
[40:35] Kate explains her philosophy on chasing opportunities.
Kate Figler is a Nashville-based designer who specializes in layered and timeless interiors that speak to her clients’ unique personalities and taste. A lover of color and pattern, Kate strives to create spaces that mix luxurious fabrics, natural textures, and both traditional and contemporary elements.
A graduate of Georgetown and Columbia Universities, Kate originally pursued a career in elementary education as a kindergarten teacher. However, after several back-to-back moves, she discovered her passion for renovating and decorating homes. As a mother of three children, she understands the importance of merging beautiful design with functionality — a practice she believes defines her approach. Kate comes from a long line of family-run businesses, and her years spent working in her mother’s restaurant instilled the responsibility she feels to her clients and their overall experience. She commits fully to her projects, striving to make them fun, efficient and collaborative.
While born and raised in New England, Kate’s relocation to Nashville helped distinguish her style and aesthetic. Her rooms blend both the charm of the Northeast and the tradition of the South. You’ll see a mix of elegant antiques, gorgeous textiles, and fresh interpretations of classic designs that all work together to make her rooms one of a kind.
Kate’s work has been seen in Nashville Lifestyles magazine where she was named one of Nashville’s “Up and Coming Designers” in 2021.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#2: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy
#145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10-Year-old Firm
#450: Power Talk Friday: Bethany Mabee: Outsource the 80% Business and Do the 20% Interior Design
#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!
#585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems
#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business
#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation
#845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating
#861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers
#895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers
Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful entrepreneur, CEO, and the Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara shares her unique philosophy on how she incorporates window treatments into her design projects, and why she considers them to be essential for creating beautiful and functional spaces.
She is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish.
Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market, and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
AWDB #463 Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity
AWDB #514 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success
AWDB #524 Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough
AWDB #607 Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines
Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined by Lorna Gross, owner of Lorna Gross Interior Design. After finishing two business degrees and leading a very successful life in corporate America, Lorna ended up disappointed and unhappy. Even as successful as she was with winning awards and being up for a promotion. It was time for her to pivot. Lorna and I discuss the art of pivoting, how to recognize when you should, and how to confidently execute it.
“I believe the universe does these things to us to get us to make a different move.” - Lorna Gross
“I am believer that everything is for a season. The key is recognizing when that season is over.” - Lorna Gross
“You have to risk failure to get to the next thing you should be doing. Sometimes it will take you several times, sometimes it will take one time. As long as you’re not stuck in the season you shouldn’t be in.” - LuAnn Nigara
Currently based in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Lorna Gross’ Louisiana and New York roots inspired
her signature blend of warmth and elegance. Her flourishing design firm, Lorna Gross Interior Design, creates homes that perfectly reflect those who dwell within. Equally comfortable hosting a five-course dinner on fine china or a raucous crawfish boil, Lorna
is a consummate hostess and expert entertainer. She is adept at public speaking and easily draws in a crowd with her innate kindness and relatability.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#858: Veronica Solomon: Cultivating Self-Awareness as a Superpower
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Fred Berns. Fred has been on the show many times, and I often refer to him when I talk about finding your Fred Berns Only. Knowing your “only” is essential.
After working in the interior design industry as a business coach, speaker, and copywriter for 35 years, Fred has spent the past five years traveling the world. He visited 33 countries on four continents, and talked to business owners everywhere he went.
Fred has studied the most successful business professionals across many industries around the globe, and he discovered they all share several traits.
Today Fred is here to explain The Five Things these people have in common, along with actionable ways we can bring these habits into our own lives and businesses.
[04:07] Fred and LuAnn discuss the first habit: Focus, especially when it comes to your financial goals.
[08:57] Fred explains the second habit: Aim high.
[14:48] Fred and LuAnn revisit the Fred Berns Only and how it relates to the third habit: The personal sale (or selling yourself).
[18:50] Fred shares the details of his coach-call program, where he gives guidance on how to apply these five things to your career and your business.
[20:05] Fred and LuAnn talk about leaving money on the table and the importance of the fourth habit: Know the next step.
[25:59] LuAnn and Fred discuss the fifth habit: Be Persistent
Fred Berns has traveled the world in the five years since he retired from the interior design industry, and he’s learned a lot about small business success in the process.
“Success Shortcuts” has been a key topic of his conversations with entrepreneurs during his travels to 33 countries on four continents.
His international travels mark the latest chapter in a career that included more than 35 years as a business coach, copy writer and speaker in the interior design industry.
During that span, he trained design professionals on how to dramatically increase sales by promoting themselves more effectively. He spoke at design industry events around the world, and coached and wrote bios, website copy and other promotional materials for design professionals from Dallas to Dubai.
At the same time, he published a blog and newsletter that reached thousands of design professionals around the world, and he created a collection of books, videos and other business building resources for the interior design industry.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
Freds' Coach Call is a one-hour personalized, customized consultation session in which I help design professionals apply The Five Things to their businesses and careers.
The session can also include suggestions on how to upgrade and update their bios and website copy.
Investment: $159.Details: Contact Fred Berns at FredTalks @gmail.com, or 303-589-3013.
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Marilyn Watson-LaVergne.
In her first career, Marilyn worked in marketing and public relations in New York City, witnessing the progression of branding for products and creative services, including interior design.
Now a seasoned designer and owner of Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, Marilyn is teaching us that we can’t be all the things to all the people—and what to do instead.
It all starts with identifying what you believe and finding your point of differentiation, because clients don’t buy what we do. They buy what we believe.
Listen now to my chat with Marilyn to learn how to take this first step and where it will lead you.
[4:50] Marilyn explains the nuances and expertise that go into interior design.
[10:11] Marilyn talks about how she became passionate about design and transitioned out of marketing to become a designer.
[14:39] LuAnn and Marilyn discuss the impact a designer can have on their clients’ homes and lives, and what opportunities will bring the best outcomes.
[21:01] Marilyn suggests once you find your “only,” narrow your focus and seek customers who need that specific trait.
[27:35] Marilyn emphasizes that designers are not a commodity.
[39:00] Marilyn and LuAnn discuss the challenges of working in a creative industry, but understanding that what you offer will solve a problem or create an opportunity for your clients will benefit you both.
Marilyn designs residential and boutique commercial interiors for clients seeking to enjoy spaces that showcase their values and amplify their aspirations. Her work features modern lines punched up with aesthetic elements from African, Asian, Middle Eastern and Indigenous cultures.
She begins each project listening to understand clients’ vision, then collaborates to create exceptional living environments.
“Design is about my clients’ future,” Marilyn observes, “So, we aim to transform their highest dreams into living reality. We delivery original spaces filled with inspiration, comfort and pleasure.”
Before design, Marilyn was a New York City publicist -- working, at times, in the interior design industry. Later, she collaborated with architects coordinating façade improvements to downtown buildings.
She earned the Certificate of Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York. Then opened Sepia Home, an interior design showroom and art gallery in Montclair, NJ. Later she joined Cabinets to Go, a leading cabinetry retailer, where she designed 100’s of kitchens and bathrooms for clients in the greater New York City area.
In 2019, She launched Marilyn LaVergne Interiors, a full-service interior design studio, to serve clients ready to step into living spaces that magnify their imagination!
10 Marilyn FACTS:
1. She’s evangelical about collecting fine art
2. Believes she smiles way too much
3. Takes Comfort in candle light
4. Holds intense disdain for fluorescent lighting
5. Plays guitar, sings the blues … but is shy about performing
6. Would kill for a private tour of Prince’s closet
7. Thinks the word “amazing” is over-used
8. Once hated Vegas so much she cried
9. Loves her curls
10. Adheres to a design principle that involves Diana Ross – ask her!
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
AWDB #174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday.
Your website matters for so many reasons. It’s the gateway for how your clients get to know you, whether they trust you, and ultimately whether they ever contact you or not.
My guest today, Masha Koyen, understands the importance of web copy. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry. She helps designers and builders level up their brand and create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience.
Masha has seen a lot of web copy—and specifically, a lot of mistakes that designers make with their websites. Today, she’s sharing the top 7 mistakes she sees—and what you can do to correct them.
Masha Koyen is a Copywriter and Content Strategist for interior designers and builders that want to level up their brand, create messaging that connects, engages, and attracts their ideal audience. She is the founder of Content Vertical, a copywriting agency for the interior design industry.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
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#317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen
#811 Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Maria Leigh Palantino, came into the interior design industry as her second career. She started a career in fashion design then pivoted, and brought with her many skills from her fashion career that guide her philosophies, design style, and the way she cultivates a memorable experience for her clients.
For Maria, it wasn’t just about being scared to take the plunge to start a new career. The real challenge was giving herself permission to leave behind not just her expertise but something she had worked so hard for and trust herself to build something new. Today, she’s sharing how she overcame that challenge and created a thriving interior design business.
[4:43] Maria shares how she decided it was time to take the leap to become an interior designer.
[9:30] Maria and LuAnn discuss how hard it can be to give yourself permission to change careers.
[24:46] Maria discusses how delegating early in her business created value and allowed her to reach greater heights.
[33:41] Maria shares how she weaves her fashion design experience into her interior design business.
“The path and life which you're presented with or the career path or the profession that you dedicate your life to, isn't always where you will end up, and that's okay. In the end, it truly will work out—whatever your passion is.” -Maria
“It does seem like a significant process to actually ultimately give yourself permission to walk away from one race to another.” -LuAnn
Homebodi Designs was born as Maria transitioned out of the fashion design industry and navigated through COVID-19 spending lots of time at home. It was during that time that she became a true “homebodi” and noticed the importance of being happy with the design of your home and spending time with the ones you love.
Maria's background in fashion design and working within the industry over the past five years provided her with a seamless transition as she decided to enter into the world of interior design. The principles learned from the industry created a firm foundation for her newest venture and her own business. It has given her a new found passion for design and a new identity as a designer.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
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02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy
707 Rachel Moriarty: Authenticity and Visibility in Your Interior Design Business
Today With Terri Taylor:
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m excited to welcome back Terri Taylor, creator of the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.
Today, she is giving us an inside look at her upcoming Design Biz Summit—a 3-day event to help designers shake their mindset breaks and develop the skills to know their worth, charge it, and deliver on it. She’s also sharing her insights on the importance of having the right money mindset—and what you can do to stop undervaluing and undercharging.
Pick It Apart
[1:03] Terri discusses how our money mindset forms when we are children and impacts the way we function in our business.
[3:11] Terri talks about the money mindset of the luxury client.
[18:30] Terri and LuAnn talk about the importance of learning both mindset and skills.
[29:29] Terri breaks down why you need to be able to create budgets for your client.
[47:43] Terri discusses the Design Biz Summit and what you can get if you sign up today.
LuAnn Nigara and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha Moments
“I realized quickly that if you didn’t shift your mindset about what you thought was possible, all the checklists and contracts and lists and scripts we develop to make it easier are no good because you don’t believe it can happen.” -Terri
“You can’t attract what you resent.” -Terri
“It's interesting, because successful super uber-successful people do have similar characteristics and traits, in the way they run and manage their entire lives, to your point of making time for creativity, making time, for space for travel, for all of that stuff, they are not necessarily working 90 hours a week, right? They understand when to work, when to create when to you know, dream, when to take care of themselves, when to do all the things.” -LuAnn
More About Terri Taylor
Terri Taylor is an award-winning interior designer turned business coach who teaches and mentors designers on how to create thriving businesses and own their worth.
Terri has more than 30 years experience in the interior design and construction business. She’s been featured in regional and national design publications and is a sought-after guest speaker at national and international events.
She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including business practices, sales, marketing, mindset, leadership, success, and personal growth.
As host of the Interior Design Business Podcast, Terri brings her clear, proven, and repeatable step-by-step “recipes” for attracting ideal luxury clients along with her overreaching attitude of gratitude, abundance, beauty, and joy for creating long-lasting and meaningful success, to a growing audience of interior designers each week.
In 2009, Terri created the Interior Design Business Academy – an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of business strategies and systems along with powerful positive mindset practices to help interior designers create meaningful success.
Over the past 10+ years, Terri has coached hundreds of designers to grow their businesses to 6- and 7-figures with grace and ease. She’s known as a straight-talking ‘technical expert’ when it comes to streamlining your design business.
Her value-packed events and coaching programs are all designed to move you and your design business to whole new levels of getting paid what you deserve.
Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability - all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.
Connect with Terri Taylor
Other Shows Mentioned:
#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets
#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit
#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth
#829: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor- Fly the Plane While You Build It!
#865: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal When Working with Contractors on a Remodel
Today on A Well-Designed Business, I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, color consultant, and DEIB practitioner. This is Part Two of our conversation on how to become a culturally competent designer, and we are going even deeper.
In this conversation, Jessica walks us through the six habits of a culturally competent designer—the same habits outlined in her new book, Design for Identity: How to
Design Authentically for a Diverse World. Listen now to learn more about each of these habits and how you can incorporate them into your routine and be a part of this phenomenal shift in the industry.
[1:58] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the first habit of culturally competent designers: Take accountability, especially during the design process and through inclusive leadership.
[10:25] Jessica explains the second habit: Ask questions. She says this step is about creating a space for conversation, which should be established at the beginning of a project.
[17:58] LuAnn asks Jessica about the third habit: Seek knowledge.
[25:26] Jessica shares that the majority of her book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World, is about the critical fourth habit: Talk to customers.
[34:44] LuAnn and Jessica expand on the fifth habit: Believe people, and why this habit should not be overlooked.
[41:00] Jessica explains the sixth and final habit: Share experience, saying that culturally competent designers need to set the tone, create the space, and model the behavior of sharing experience.
“All of us need to adopt these habits. So that there is no one outlier in the team or in the organization that is the one speaking up. It becomes a normal part of conversation. And when a point is raised, it can be something that can be can be discussed more broadly.” – Jessica Bantom
“The entire culture of the company has to be a place where you allow people to express their points of view.” – LuAnn Nigara
“When it comes to identity, and representing cultures and identity, and it's in an authentic way, that does require getting other viewpoints and perspectives..” – Jessica Bantom
“There is this expectation that we can't start talking about difference until we bring people of different backgrounds into the organization. That is not true. Because, like we said, there is information available and accessible to of us. And it is also not the responsibility of those people to come into a firm and educate their peers.” – Jessica Bantom
“We have to be willing to engage with customers, because we are the experts on design, but they are the experts on themselves.” – Jessica Bantom
“These are principles, these are ideas, these are things that we should be doing to be better humans. However, if that's not enough to get your mojo going, understand this is your business. Your business is going to dramatically change over the next five-to-ten-to-fifteen years.” – LuAnn Nigara
Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy.
Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
Today With Jenna Gaidusek:
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Jenna Gaidusek, Director of Community and Education at Mydoma Studio. Jenna is a talented designer, founder of the Interior Design Playbook (formerly eDesign Tribe) Facebook community and creator of eDesign U, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry.
Jenna doesn’t want you to go it alone as a designer, which is why she joined forces with Mydoma Studio and created the Virtual Assistant Certification program.
Listen now to this sponsored episode for all the details about this amazing new resource available only through Mydoma.
[3:07] Jenna explains what a virtual assistant is and how they help businesses.
[4:47] LuAnn and Jenna discuss the need for virtual assistants, especially for designers, and why Jenna and Sarah Daniele from Mydoma partnered to create a certification program specifically within the Mydoma Studio platform.
[11:00] LuAnn identifies the ideal candidates for this course.
[14:41] Jenna explains what candidates need to do to get started in the certification program.
[15:50] LuAnn asks Jenna about common tasks VA’s will complete and different ways they can collaborate with designers after this training in both the project management and rendering.
[19:29] Jenna and LuAnn discuss the benefits of having a VA certified in Mydoma Studio, including access to Mydoma, training updates, and access to the community for a year.
[28:11] Jenna explains how the week-long course is structured and how to apply.
“Virtual assistants are basically like your right hand, man. They can help you streamline your process, take the things off your plate that you just don't enjoy doing, but they thrive on…[doing] the things that you don't love to do, and it makes a great partnership.” – Jenna Gaidusek
“There are people that might not be designers that are so perfect for this role as a VA that it just fits and it just clicks and we need you as designers to be our other half.” – Jenna Gaidusek
“‘This is a tremendous benefit, that if I recognize the value that Mydoma Studio can be to my business—to my back end, to my operations and my system, but I mentally don't have the capacity, whether it's actual intellectual capacity or physical capacity timewise…[Now there is] somebody that I can pay to put my projects in to get everything done.” – LuAnn Nigara
“I believe if you have an organized brain, we can teach this to you.” – Jenna Gaidusek
Jenna is a talented visual communicator and interior designer with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. She made the decision to leave her corporate interior design career in 2015 to launch her own online interior design business, which quickly gained traction and became a successful venture while she was living in New York City.
She began sharing her work on social media, and other designers frequently reached out to her with questions. During this time, Jenna noticed a lack of information and resources available for eDesign, which was not yet a popular concept. To meet this demand, Jenna founded the eDesign Tribe Facebook community, which quickly grew into a thriving platform for designers to connect and learn from one another (now called the Interior Design Playbook).
With a continued need for education in the field of virtual design communication and business development, Jenna created eDesign U in 2018, an online school dedicated to providing designers with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the eDesign industry.
Jenna also recognized the need for a more user-friendly and affordable 3D rendering program and embeddable shopping list for designers. In response, she developed a cutting-edge platform that provided just that. This platform was quickly embraced by designers and became a game-changer in the industry.
In 2022, Jenna's efforts and dedication to eDesign were rewarded when her eDesign Tribe community and all associated entities were acquired by Mydoma Studio. This acquisition provided designers with an unprecedented level of resources and support, allowing them to render their designs and manage their projects with ease.
Jenna's innovative and forward-thinking approach to eDesign has had a significant impact on the industry, and her contributions have been widely recognized. She continues to be a thought leader in the field, and her passion for helping designers succeed is an inspiration to all who work with her as the Director of Community and Education with Mydoma and continues to work as a practicing virtual interior designer.
Connect with Jenna Gaidusek
Virtual Assistant Certification
Get 20% off Mydoma for 3 months!
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Mydoma Studio
#91: Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio
#555: Sarah Daniele: 19H The Blueprint, Create Resiliency in Your Business
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today we’re traveling outside the country. My guest Christina Richardson from Christina Richardson Interiors. Christina is a Scandinavian native who grew up on the charming coast of Northern Sweden. After moving to the U.S. with her husband and two daughters, Christina earned her interior design degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design. With 20 years of interior design under her belt from Sweden, Christina has learned a lot in the business of starting over in another country. She is here to share the “musts” of what she learned you should do if considering taking projects in another country.
[5:00] Christina shares her experience coming to the U.S. and becoming an interior designer.
[9:10] How Christina got clients being from a different country and not knowing anyone.
[15:27] What to think about if you are in the U.S. and want to start a project in a different country.
[20:20] Christina explains the Vienna Agreement.
[34:42] Tips on vetting a contractor when you are doing an out of country project.
[44:05] Christina explains how things work when there are cultural differences.
“People like you give newer designers hope where you go through the stages of fear, but you plow through,” - LuAnn Nigara
“It’s important for everyone to know about the Vienna Agreement
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#638: What Would Lu Do?: Processes and Contracts: They Aren’t Made to Be Broken
#789: Flashback Friday: Michelle Wiebe: Breaking into New Construction as an Interior Designer
Today With Traci Connell:
Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell’s free masterclass The Reveal which begins on September 11, 2023. Traci joins us once again to share all of the ways you can work with her in The Gloss, including her free masterclass The Reveal where she “reveals” all of the secrets and shortcuts she has learned in the interior design industry. This is a five-day, one-hour-per-day event.
In The Reveal, you will learn the strategies Traci teaches designers to hit one million in revenue. This FREE course is for any interior designer who wants to reach the next level. Who wouldn’t that be, right?
Traci and I also discuss all of the valuable ways you can work with her in The Gloss. She uses her own four-pillar framework; More Purpose, More Precision, More Profit, and More Prestige to help designers achieve more wealth financially, mentally, and personally.
This #smartlady continues to offer up her shortcuts and expertise in everything she has learned on her way to building her multimillion-dollar design firm. Listen in to learn how to join The Gloss and get on The Reveal waitlist.
Pick It Apart
[12:48] Traci explains her two main keys to leveling up and creating wealth in your business.
[16:00] How do you prevent clients from sourcing online after you have sourced things for them?
[25:46] Traci talks about the new contingency fee that she has implemented.
[34:54] How joining The Confidential can build your business.
[39:38] Traci shares her programs and how you can work with her.
LuAnn Nigara and Traci Connell's Ah-Ha Moments
“Wealth doesn’t necessarily mean money. It’s not about being rich, but having a rich life.” - Traci Connell
“We always say on the show, if you tell me ahead of time what the agreements are before we sign, I am a grown up and can decide whether I want to proceed. There are no hard feelings because everyone knows the deal from the beginning.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Traci Connell
Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture.
With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes.
Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board.
Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021, D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more.
Connect with Traci Connell
Attend the free masterclass - The Reveal!
Other Shows Mentioned:
#525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success
#554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Today’s show is sponsored by Traci Connell and her free course, The Reveal.
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined Jessica Bantom, interior designer, DEIB practitioner, and author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World. This is the first part of a conversation about how to become a culturally competent designer.
In this episode, part one of a two-part series, Jessica explains cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. But she explains that it essentially comes down to making space for conversations.
[5:54] LuAnn and Jessica talk about the goals of Jessica’s new book, Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World
[11:59] Jessica explains why she uses the term “identity” instead of culture, in order to speak more broadly about differences across multiple dimensions—including race and ethnicity but also age, religion, sexual orientation, and body size.
[18:32] Jessica and LuAnn discuss unconscious bias.
[21:46] Jessica and LuAnn examine the way different people are able (or unable) to share their experiences and why that is.
[35:45] LuAnn clarifies with Jessica that the message in her book is that, as designers, we need to make space for these conversations.
[39:35] Jessica explains that designers should not be making assumptions or interpreting someone else’s identity.
“Cultural competence is the ability to understand, interact with, and appreciate people of different backgrounds or belief systems that are different from your own. And what that essentially boils down to is just really making space to understand and appreciate that there are different experiences that people have based on different aspects of their identity. And it's all about being open-minded to what those are, and accepting that there are other realities.” – Jessica Bantom
“We may be in the same room looking at the same thing, but we are going to experience and we are going to process it differently.” – Jessica Bantom
“Instead of telling somebody that's baseless, we have to be willing to ask and understand how it happens that way, and why those feelings are there.” – LuAnn Nigara
“ ‘It is the duty of the interior designer to have awareness and sensitivity in going about their design for all of the communities that they designed for.’” – LuAnn Nigara quoting from the book Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World by Jessica Bantom
“As designers it's not on us to interpret somebody's culture or identity. It is on us to open the door for the conversation—to receive the information, to process it, to do what we do as designers with that new information. But it's not on us to come up with our interpretation of somebody's identity.” – Jessica Bantom
Jessica Bantom is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) practitioner and workplace strategist whose goals are to help organizations develop customized strategies for transformational change and to enable individuals to take immediate action to become more inclusive. Author of Design for Identity: How to Design Authentically for a Diverse World (coming in April 2023), she is a skilled management consultant with over 20 years of experience, a compelling speaker, and a certified facilitator and coach with a passion for helping people and organizations activate the values of DEIB to become more culturally competent and thrive in our increasingly global economy.
Jessica is a proud alum of the University of Virginia where she earned her undergraduate degree and Marymount University where she earned her Masters. She is certified as an Associate Diversity Coach through the CoachDiversity Institute’s Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching program in collaboration with the Howard University School of Business and holds a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she is a Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, and Change Management Advanced Practitioner (CMAP) with a specialization in Design Thinking and Innovation from Darden Executive Education at the University of Virginia.Jessica is also active in the interior design industry as an interior design and color consultant and as an engaged advocate committed to promoting DEIB in the industry and in practice. She describes herself as a multidisciplinary designer of human-centered solutions and uses her specialization in design thinking to develop and apply innovative approaches that transcend industries. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she’s a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, although she will always call Philadelphia home.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
Today With Manuela Keller & Philip McKay:
Today’s episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart, a German company that specializes in organizing trade shows, particularly for the home decor industry. They have been in the trade show business for more than 80 years, annually organizing around 60 shows and 100 conferences worldwide.
Manuela Keller and Philip McKay are joining us to tell us all about two upcoming events: Sun Shading Expo 2023 and R+T 2024, which will both bring together the sun shading and textiles industries. Here, you will be able to maximize your time and meet the right people to discuss business opportunities for the entire sun shading product range.
About Manuela:
Manuela Keller is an experienced manager of international trade shows and events around the globe, with a proven track record in the event services industry since 2006. She has knowledge in strategic planning, business development, marketing strategy, event management and management.
Starting as an intern in the international department of Messe Stuttgart in 2006, she soon took on more responsibility and became project manager for official German Pavilions - joint company participations - at trade shows in all parts of the world - including SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, SolarPower in Anaheim, IMTS in Chicago, ArabHealth in Dubai - to name just a few.
In 2009, Manuela became the project manager of R+T Asia, the leading international trade show for the sun control and door industry in the ASEAN region. Other trade fairs such as R+T Middle East, R+T Russia, R+T Turkey and R+T South America were added over the years.
Today, she is Manager of Exhibitions and Events and responsible for the international trade shows of the R+T Alliance - R+T Asia (Shanghai, China), R+T Turkey (Istanbul, Turkey), Sun Shading Expo North America (changing locations/USA) and APAExpo by R+T (Barcelona, Spain).
Manuela Keller is also part of the project team for R+T - the World's Leading Trade Fair for Roller Shutters, Doors and Sun Shading Systems. Among other things, she is responsible for the overarching exchange with the international association partners and supporters, the strategic and thematic support of the international conference program and the processing of international exhibitor and visitor inquiries, as well as the management of the international sales force. With more than 17 years of experience in organizing international trade shows, she brings remarkable added value and her global network to the organization of this outstanding, internationally renowned trade show.
The international trade fair heart beats in the middle of the dynamic Stuttgart region. Over 60 trade fairs and more than 100 congresses and events are held every year at our venue. We also operate all over the world and maintain a network of foreign representatives in 51 countries.
She has been married for more than 20 years and is a proud mother of a 10 year old son. As a balance to her working life, she likes to go for long walks in the nearby forest or attend live concerts - preferably punk or alternative rock.
About Philip:
Philip McKay has a proven track record as a successful senior executive with leading event companies. Before becoming President of Messe Stuttgart IncPhilip founded nGage Events LLC. in 2012. nGage became the premier hosted buyer events company in North America where it produced over 15 events a year across many industries.
Phil McKay also served in many executive positions for some of the largest trade show producers in the globe such as:
Executive VP for Questex Media and was responsible for their hosted model events and technology group. He has also served as Senior Vice President of the World Market Center in Las Vegas in charge of growing their event portfolio in the furniture, gift and home accessories industries. Mr. McKay held the position of Group Vice President and General Manager at Gartner's Vision Events, where he managed the teams of 10 different brands which were leaders in the hosted events in each of their verticals. He also served as Senior Vice President of International Business Development & Operations for Key3Media Group, overseeing the company's portfolio of COMDEX and N+I with 20 plus markets in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Prior to Key3Media, McKay was Group Managing Director for Penton Media.
In 2004, Philip McKay was recognized and awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from Tradeshow Week magazine for his outstanding and distinguished contributions to the global events industry.
Philip McKay is a past member of the board of directors of SISO. He was an active member in the Massachusetts Convention Center Advisory Board, also was past chairman of IAEE Senior Executive Advisory Board and The Future Strategy of Trade Fairs. He also was a past member of the Research Committee of CEIR and editorial advisory board member of Trade Show Executive Magazine.
He is a proud father of two men, and three grandchildren. When Phil is not working in his gardens and spoiling his grandchildren, you will find him on the golf course.
Connect with Manuela Keller & Philip McKay
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Messe Stuttgart
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would you think if I said that you could be a successful interior designer working as an employee? For some, you may think, nah. For others, you may be thinking tell me more!
My guest today, Katie Wick, interior designer at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent is here to debunk the unspoken stigma that if you are an interior designer and you don't own your own business, then you won’t be successful. Listen in to learn all of the perks and benefits to working for an interior design company.[2:30] We kick the conversation off with the benefits of working as an interior design employee.
[8:45] Katie’s specific role and day to day duties at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent.
[17:04] Katie explains how she configures her social media while doing design for Jkath.
[25:47] Additional ways that Katie and Jesse support Katie as an employee.
[44:05] Katie explains her opinion of the stigma attached to designers who don’t want to necessarily start their own firm.
“Working within a firm with established systems and vendors contributes to a designer’s delivery and experience with high level design.” - LuAnn Nigara
“There has to be a willingness from both the employee and employer to have the hard conversations and proper communication.” - LuAnn Nigara
“They’ve been so generous to me and have created a great culture at Jkath. I would never do anything to cause any suffering in the business. And although it is their business, it is my reputation as well.” - Katie Wick
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
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#407: Century Furniture and Carrier & Company Launch New Line at High Point Market April 2019
#627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business
Today With Fernando Duque:
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by friend and colleague Fernando Duque, the CEO of Duke Renders. I am also joined by designers Nicole Salceda, from Eye for Pretty, and Elle Odori, founder of Decorelle, who are living proof that using 3D rendering from Duke Renders can uplevel your projects.
Having had Fernando on two times before, we are well aware of his clear process and tremendous success. But we have never heard first hand from one of his clients. It is always nice to hear recommendations from a colleague, and boy do these two recommend Duke Renders. Nicole and Elle share their positive experiences with Duke Renders despite their initial intimidation to give rendering a shot.
Pick It Apart
[3:15] Nicole starts us off with how Duke Renders has personally helped her in her projects.
[7:12] Fernando explains what a designer needs to provide in order for Duke Renders to have detailed renderings.
[17:30] Fernando explains how they can easily use your project management systems, like Mydoma to help formulate your rendering.
[24:54] What to expect with the price of rendering.
[32:55] Nicole shares how she uses rendering for her spec homes.
[43:12] How rendering can not only help your clients visualize a space, but also new ideas from the designer.
[48:15] Fernando’s final thoughts about using Duke Render’s 3D rendering for your projects.
LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments
“For our first experience going into rendering I was nervous, but Duke Renders made it easy and really laid it out for us by sending us a template to follow.” - Elle Odori
“When you have the rendering, it gets the client so excited for what’s to come and holds them over.” -Nicole Salceda
“When do you know if it is OK to invest in your business? It is always OK, but it is never going to feel easy.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Fernando Duque
Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.
I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.
We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico.
We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.
We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.
We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.
I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.
Fun Facts:
1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!
2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years
3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife
Connect with Fernando Duque
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#852: Nicole Salceda: You Don’t Need to Have All the Superpowers
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know that social media can be a great marketing tool—if you can build up a big following. But if you’re struggling to gain a big number of followers, is it even worth the time?
My guest today, Megan Pisano, would say the answer is absolutely yes. With under 4,000 Instagram followers, Megan has still managed to put social media to strong use for her business through engagement and relationship building. Learn why engagement matters more than metrics!
[2:27] Megan breaks down how she started using social media for her business.
[15:42] LuAnn and Megan discuss the importance of investing in professional photography.
[16:20] Megan shares the nitty-gritty of her Instagram approach, from content to hashtags.
[33:24] Megan discusses how relationship-building and engagement matter so much on Instagram.
[45:04] Megan and LuAnn talk about the value of referrals, networking, and live events.
“So even though the first time they reach out to you, it's technically a cold lead, it actually is functioning like a warm lead, because the relationship has already begun.” -LuAnn
“You have to post pictures of yourself. People want to know what you look like.” -Megan
Megan Pisano Design is an interior design company based in Chatham, NJ. Whether you’re in need of a full-house design or a single-room color recommendation (or anything in between), Megan can help you transform your home.
Megan works closely with her clients to understand what they’re looking for and creates spaces that are both beautiful as well as functional! She has a love for clean, minimalist designs that are brought to life with art and decor that reflect each client’s personality.
Megan’s interest in interior design began at a young age when she found herself rearranging her bedroom furniture every week (a habit that still remains!). She went on to receive an interior design degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and quickly put it to good use after graduation by working as an interior designer for the top Italian Furniture Company, B&B Italia.
After 10 years at B&B Italia, Megan decided to go out on her own in 2017 and fulfill her lifelong dream of starting her own company.
Megan loves helping her clients create spaces they feel happy in and feels lucky to have a job that she never sees as “work”. She’s also a certified yoga instructor – a passion that helps her bring a calm, relaxed approach to all of her designs and clients.
Megan lives in Chatham, NJ with her husband and their 2 young boys.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
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#278: Erika Ward – Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd.
#861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers.
Today With Adam Stevison:
Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Adam Stevison, Luxury Showroom Manager of the newest Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, New Jersey. While the Home Depot has been around for almost 50 years, this new concept is a store-within-a-store, offering an interactive, luxury experience aimed to serve a customer it was unable to before. The Vauxhall location is the third Design Center that the Home Depot has opened, with other locations in San Diego, California, and Rockville, Maryland.
In this episode, sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center, Adam tells all about this extraordinary opportunity for designers and their clients. Featuring luxury brands appliances by Monogram, Thermador, Signature Kitchen Suite, and Dacor, the Home Depot Design Center features working vignettes, a team of experts, and end-to-end white glove service handled entirely in-house.
Pick It Apart
[1:50] Adam explains what the Home Depot Design Centers (HDDC) offer as a full experience center with built-in vignettes all in demo mode featuring.
[9:31] Adam and LuAnn discuss how designers can learn about the appliances from the team at the HDDC in order to educate their clients and also bring their clients in to experience the center themselves.
[16:28] LuAnn asks Adam to walk through the process of the experience from a designer’s standpoint.
[24:02] Adam talks about the white glove service at the HDDC, explaining all of the concierge services that accompany the experience and emphasizing that no part of the process or product is handled by a third party.
[32:42] Adam and LuAnn discuss client needs and wants and how the appliances at the HDDC can accommodate a range of budgets and desires.
[43:24] Adam encourages designers near the New Jersey location to use the HDDC as a shared workspace with their clients.
LuAnn Nigara and Adam Stevison's Ah-Ha Moments
“Experience goes a long way.” – Adam Stevison
“We can teach a designer that's designing as much as the consumer and the end user.” – Adam Stevison
“I know I can't sell what I don't know and I don't understand… So I love that we have this ability to come and really absorb it and grasp it and get the reason for the price tag, what is the value that goes in.” – LuAnn Nigara
“Nothing gets handed over at Home Depot Design Center to anything third party at any stage of the game.” – Adam Stevison
“Ultimately, this is actually the role in the value of the designer—to be the person that's doing the coordinating among everybody.” – LuAnn Nigara
More About Adam Stevison
Since starting with The Home Depot in 2001, Adam Stevison has worked in various roles both customer facing and regional support positions. Titles aside, he is an adept salesperson and operations manager, who now oversees the Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ.
As a part of a new venture in an established company, that’s over 44 years old, his team in HDDC serve a customer that was unable to before.
Introducing the Home Depot Design Center
If the kitchen is the heart of the home, we look forward to being able to match the name recognition of The Home Depot with luxury branded appliances at the Home Depot Design Center to make the kitchen of our client’s dreams come true.
Customers benefit from interacting with the appliances in our luxury showroom to help them decide on products that fit their lifestyle. And through partnerships with designers and the trade, we extend a white glove delivery service, products that are high quality, highly sought after, and suited well for those looking for an elevated experience.
Open House at the Home Depot Design Center
The best way to learn about the latest features on kitchen appliances is to visit our showroom in Home Depot Design Center in Vauxhall, NJ.
Designers and trade professionals are welcome to our Open House on September 14, 2023. And meet the best-selling author and podcaster: LuAnn Nigara.
Visit the event page for details and RSVP to attend.
Connect with Adam Stevison
RVSP to attend the Open House at the Home Depot Design Center!
A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:
This episode is sponsored by the Home Depot Design Center.
Other Shows Mentioned:
#31 Steven Cooper – The Value of a Trusted Vendor
#536 Monogram Appliances: Robert Koller and Alexandra Skobel
#794 Renee Biery: Do Clients Know You Can Handle Project Management?
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. We all know the value of relationships in business—but what about the HOW? How are people going about building solid business relationships that make a difference?
My guest today, Rama Dandamudi, is someone who believes in relationships. Rama is here today to talk about predictability—specifically why predictability matters more than pricing. But as you’ll hear in this conversation, the way you create predictability is by focusing on relationships.
“Establish a reputation of being reliable and being consistent and being predictable. Not only will vendors want to come and work with you, but eventually clients will bring more work to you.” -Rama
“You've taken basically, the qualities of your typical mom-and-pop shop of why that business is important in a community. And you've taken those exact same principles and put it on the global scale that your business lives on.” -LuAnn
I am a Chicago-based entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience creating and managing businesses within the residential design industry. Currently, I am the president and founder of 210 Design House, a lifestyle showroom offering a curated collection of internationally acclaimed, high-end interiors products (including Snaidero, MisuraEmme, Plain & Fancy, Glas Italia, Arflex, Wall&decó, and Milldue noorth and Vitage).
For more than 25 years, my team and I have brought functional luxury and unique design to life in both single-family and multi-unit residential projects across Chicago and the country. In addition, I have spent the past two decades developing partnerships with international luxury brands and bringing them to the U.S. market, while remaining active with charitable organizations focused on child welfare and education. Prior to entering the design world, I was a board certified surgeon at Cook County Hospital for nearly 20 years.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
#222 Power Talk Friday: Lee Cockerell- Customer Service the Disney Way
#753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business
Today on A Well-Designed Business, I welcome my friend Anna Nelson. I met Anna in September 2022 at the HPS. Out of the 60 or so people that were there, Anna was the first person I immediately connected with. In the episode you will hear her say that this is her strength, connecting with people on a deeper level, and I can personally vouch for that.
Anna is here to talk about how she helps entrepreneurs find and use their own strengths to get focused and aligned in their businesses.
[8:10] Anna explains the importance of appreciating the value of your ideas in relation to benefitting your business.
[12:15] How your client can have an impact on utilizing and recognizing your strengths.
[13:50] Anna shares for people not ready to invest, how they can recognize their strengths on their own.
[22:20] Anna shares an example of when it clicks for a client recognizing their strength and utilizing that to better their business.
[29:20] Anna can also benefit experienced designers and window treatment professionals who have been in the business for years.
“As a designer you can design a room, but how you approach designing that room will be different than someone else through your strength. It comes down to understanding what sets you apart in your industry.” - Anna Nelson
“If you don’t appreciate the value of your ideas and why they set you apart from someone else then you don’t know how to use them in a way that can benefit your business.” - Anna Nelson
Anna Nelson, MBA, ACC is a coach and speaker on a mission to help 10,000 entrepreneurs get focused and aligned in their businesses. She spent 18 years working in the corporate worlds of the financial, retail and marketing industries before embarking on her own entrepreneurial dream of helping people reach their goals by first understanding their strengths.
She’s coached hundreds of individuals from solopreneurs starting their businesses to 7-figure entrepreneurs with a team helping them get crystal clear on what each individual brings to their business and their clients. She loves nothing more than talking with a stranger and getting them excited to pursue the unknown and make their dreams a reality.
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
Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
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
# 174- Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours
# 811- Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate