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A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast

In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful interior design business. Design school doesn't always teach you the critical business skills to be sure your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well Designed Business is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 35 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices.
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Now displaying: Page 17
Jul 28, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn welcomes her friend, Natasa Jones to the show to share her super-smart, super-efficient strategy for note taking. Natasa’s method will work whether you are attending a webinar, a panel discussion, a course, or a conference. If you need to brush up on your note-taking skills, you don’t want to miss out on this valuable information! You’ll also hear about some of the epiphanies that Natasa experienced at LuAnn Live last year, and there are some that are sure to be meaningful to you, as well.

Natasa Jones is the owner and principal interior designer of Natasa Jones Interiors, located in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Natasa studied interior design in Chicago and her goal was always to run her own firm. Being born and raised in Montenegro, Natasa loves incorporating European contemporary elements into her interior design projects to create her signature livable modern look.

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares Natasa’s take-away moments from LuAnn Live last year.
  • When you’re at any type of learning event, ensure that you take notes in such a way that following through with any action is easy.
  • Natasa details the 5 tabs you need for efficient note-taking:
  1. To do now
  2. To do later
  3. To buy or download
  4. Mindset
  5. Follow up
  • Natasa relates her idea for a gift that realtors can give to their high-end clients: a free design consultation with Natasa.
  • There are some benefits to charging a flat-fee rate per room.
  • Natasa sings the praises of Mydoma Studio and discusses how it has helped her to streamline her processes.
  • How to present your true self to your client.
  • Own what you are capable of delivering.

Connect with Natasa!

Natasa’s Email

Natasa’s Website

Instagram Instagram

Natasa’s Facebook

Links :

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Get the Goodies! - For checklists, resources, and extra goodies!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Sales for Creatives will be back in 2020!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Interior Design Standard is Back!

Sandra Funk is a game changer for our industry!

Enrollment: September 16th - September 28th

Interior Design Standard is a digital program that covers everything you need for running an efficient and joyful business! Interior Design Standard

Increase Your Confidence, Increase Your Profits

Registration Opening in August, Course Starts in September

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned for shownotes.

Sara Brennan 463, 514, 524

Kelsey Grose 167

Taylor Spellman 106, 467

Candy Scott 409, 279

Rachel Cannon 306, 409

Melissa Lindsey 517

Sandra Funk 02, 145, 520

Stacy Tuschl 87

Corey Damen Jenkins 127, 388, 549

Peter Lang 349, 464

Wendy Wolshchuk 316, 527

Kae Whitaker 26, 66, 114, 259, 274, 556

Claire Jefford 237, 325, 485

Sarah Daniele 91, 177, 555

Kesha Franklin 370

 

Jul 24, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn is joined today by Mike Peterson, an experienced marketing and brand consultant who wants to emphasize an opportunity that our community of interior designers seems to be completely missing out on, and that’s the power they hold to improve the health of their clients through health and wellness design. Yes, you heard that right! Mike is here to explain why this is no longer anecdotal.

Mike Peterson is founder of the innovative marketing and brand firm, Visionary Design Marketing.  Visionary Design Marketing's goal is to help companies create tailored, strategic, and effective communications that are founded in a clear understanding of their brand. Brand development is rooted in a customers understanding of a designer's brand and includes new website, social media communications tools, and the new targeted digital tools such as geofencing, microproximity targeting, and display contextual search.

Visionary Design Marketing is currently leading a developing education in our industry... that interior designers provide much more than aesthetics..they improve the health of their clients!

Mike Peterson’s experience is rooted in years as a leading advertising executive and Publisher at Hearst Magazines, including House Beautiful and Country Living, working with leading national advertisers. Mike’s experience in the home furnishings industry includes President/CEO of LaBarge Furnishings and as Vice President of Corporate Marketing for such companies as Henredon, Lexington, Drexel Heritage, and more. Prior to Visionary Design Marketing, Mike  spent 8 years as Publisher of Luxe Magazine. In this role, Mike guided LUXE Magazine into a market leader and served the design industry by helping interior designers, design centers, and luxury design firms better grow marketing strategies for their businesses.

Show Highlights:

  • Designers do not get credit for improving both the physical and mental health of their clients.
  • Mike wants to teach designers how to take credit for this “Design Harmony” that is not just a concept, but is now proven by studies the world over.
  • Designers should start including the health benefits of design into their marketing. This will also allow them to increase their hourly rate and overall revenue.
  • Mike explains the physiological changes that take place when we’re pleased with our surroundings.
  • Mike provides designers with the information they need to build a better business using brand differentiation.
  • Terminology that you need to know: environmental psychology, sensory design, chromotherapy, neuroaesthetics, shinrun-yoku, and biophilic design.
  • Mike offers a CEU class on Design Harmony. There is also a section on how to begin marketing yourself as a health and wellness-based design firm.
  • Once designers have a conviction of their real value proposition, they can then start marketing themselves with confidence using all of the correct terminology.

Connect with Mike!

Mike’s Email 

Mike’s Website

Mike’s Instagram

Free PDF: Finding Your Brand Personality

Design Harmony – A Look at Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness

Interior Designers Embracing Wellness – Focused Design Opportunties

Sign up for CEU Class via Zoom August 13, 2020, only $40.00 per person!

Design Harmony: Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness

Book Mentioned:

Beauty, Neuroscience, and Architecture: Timeless Patterns and Their Impact on Our Well-Being by Donald H. Ruggles

Nature by Design: The Practice of Biophilic Design by Stephen Kellert

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Other shows mentioned for shownotes:

Cheryl Janis #41

#82#212, #218, #224

Laurance Carr #484 

 

Jul 23, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s guest is LuAnn’s friend, Arianne Bellizaire. In this #blacklivesmatter episode, Arianne shares her experiences with us as a black woman and designer. Don’t be surprised when you have some self-discovery moments as Arianne takes LuAnn on a dive into the policies and systems that have been built in this country that allow us to see things differently. In addition, Arianne catches us up on what she’s been working on since she was last a guest on the show, and you don’t want to miss the details of her new video course! Please join this conversation, for you are sure to learn something new.

 

Award-winning, Baton Rouge-based interior designer and content creator Arianne Bellizaire is a certified True Colour Expert who inspires her design clients and readers with her warmth, positivity, and creative problem-solving talents. Among Arianne's many awards and achievements in her design career, she has been named a High Point Market Authority Style Spotter (2015), Perlick Ambassador of Cool (2017), Villeroy & Boch Color Challenge Winner (2017), Modenus Blog Tour invitee (2016 & 2019), and Modenus DesignHound (Spain and London 2016, Surfaces 2018). Her blog Inspired To Style is a two-time nominee for the Amara Interior Blog Awards (2016, 2017) and is currently listed as one of the Modenus Top 100 Influential Blogs. Her work and expertise have been featured in Rue Daily, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Business of Home, and USA Today.

Show Highlights:

  • Arianne shares how she decided to have more conversations about race with her white friends through reading How To Be An Antiracist and talking about it in the Facebook group that she created for it, Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism.
  • This Facebook group grew rapidly and within two weeks of its inception, a curriculum and format was created.
  • “Part of the challenge is everybody’s perspective causes them to see the world differently.” - Arianne
  • The book allows the group to see history and policies as they are layered over race.
  • Do you remember the debate about the dress that people were adamant was either black and blue or white and gold? Does Arianne have an analogy for you!
  • Arianne provides examples of how we all subliminally have a hierarchy in our minds regarding race, and what is “good” versus what is “bad”.
  • We must look at every policy and ask ourselves if that policy is “anti-racist”.
  • “Anti-racist” is anything that provides equity for all races. It does not make one race superior to another.
  • When you hear someone point out inequities or discrepancies, please do not feel offended. Rather, listen to the fact that that person loves this country enough to try to make it better.
  • Arianne discusses her video course, Video Like A Pro. It’s about how to do video: how to make video a story, how to write a script, how to plan for your shoots, what equipment you need, and much more!

Connect with Arianne!

Arianne’s Email 

Arianne’s Instagram

Arianne’s Facebook

Arianne’s Pinterest

Arianne’s Twitter

Arianne’s video course:

Video Like A Pro

Facebook Group: Courageous Conversations: Unpacking Racism

The 1619 Project Podcast

Books Mentioned:

How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X Kendi

Stamped by Ibram X Kendi

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision.com to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned 

#20 Arianne’s original appearance

Other #BLM Shows:

#549 Corey Damen Jenkins

#556 Kae Whitaker 

#562 Rasheeda Gray

 

Jul 21, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is her friend, Karen Wolf, and they’re going to be covering how Karen jumped into immediate action at the outset of the Covid-19 crisis. Karen’s background in marketing taught her to “double down or drown”, and she wasn’t about to drown. Listen in to hear how Karen’s decisive leadership combined with a willingness to think outside the box put her in the category of an exceptional business owner. See if you don’t have some great “A’ha” moments during this conversation!

Karen is the Principal and Owner of nationally-recognized Karen B. Wolf Interiors. She is known for her signature style—"modern elegance,” which speaks to livable luxury, balanced color usage, clean lines, and layered spaces. Prioritizing her clients’ input and preferred aesthetics, Karen leads her team of talented women to create upscale residential spaces that speak authentically to her clients’ one-of-a-kind lifestyles and interests. Karen’s enthusiasm and passion for all facets of interior design have been a driving factor in her firm’s 10+ years of success and ability to work transparently, collaboratively, and effectively with her community of loyal clients.

A triple-threat, Karen’s education in Fine Arts, Marketing and Trends Analysis offered her the knowledge and vision to build a successful design business from the ground up. With experience in product development, Karen always has her eye on what’s new and next, organically incorporating the newest and upcoming trends in ways that are warm and timeless.

Karen’s work has been featured in a number of notable regional and national publications, both print and digital, as well as on national television on NBC’s George to the Rescue. A reliable source in the design industry, Karen has participated on business and design-focused podcasts and has an engaged, consistent presence at industry trade shows and conferences around the country.

Karen believes that every project deserves a little sparkle, a little color, something natural, and lots of love.

Show Highlights:

  • Karen explains her “double-down or drown” philosophy.
  • Designers should be marketing themselves 25% of the time, especially during a recession or pandemic.
  • Learn to identify and overcome the roadblocks and perception issues that get in the way of marketing.
  • Karen describes how she decided on content creation and marketing outreach for lead generation.
  • The biggest move Karen made was creating Design Pop Live, an IG series on Design Trends.
  • The content generated by these talks can be broken up into mini content for Pinterest, Facebook and blog. The content can also inspire additional topics for conversations.
  • “You have to step past the fear, and step out. It works! After I did it once, it was just like riding a bike, all over again.” - Karen
  • Consider hiring a marketing coordinator.
  • Karen details her key strategies.
  • Work it! Sometime you just have to hustle to succeed, especially right now.

Connect with Karen!

Karen’s Instagram 

Karen’s Facebook 

Karen’s Pinterest  

Karen’s Website

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned to link to  and to tag in SM

Elissa Grayer #451

 

 

Jul 17, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Ashley Uhl joins LuAnn on today’s show to talk about how to talk to your clients like a leader, not like a boss.

Ashley Uhl is the only client experience consultant exclusively focused on working with interior designers and decorators.  

Ashley’s knowledge and expertise in client experience comes from her degree in Psychology, years of working with high net worth individuals at wealth management firm Morgan Stanley, formal training and work in human relations, sales, and presentations at top professional development company, Dale Carnegie, and from years of gleaning knowledge from five star establishments she visited during her international travel. Her knowledge of interior design, and the processes around it, came from her short stint as a designer, which then became a pivot to teaching designers about the client experience. 

Ashley now shows designers how to confidently lead clients through the design process by teaching them a repeatable, systematic approach to delivering an exceptional client experience.  One that results in higher fees, increased efficiency, and clients absolutely adoring you. 

Ashley’s blog on the exceptional client experience is read by design professionals all over the world and has been a featured guest on podcasts such as Wingnut Social, Kimberly Seldon’s Business of Design, Kate the Socialite’s The Kate Show, and Michelle Williams’ Profit is a Choice. You can learn more about Ashley and how she works with designers at Ashley Uhl Consulting.

Show Highlights:

  • You don’t want your clients to run over you, so you want to communicate with them in a very specific, client-friendly way.
  • Especially in initial conversations with people, keep the focus on what you’re willing to do, not on what you’re NOT willing to do. Talk in the positive.
  • Ashley shares how to redirect clients in constructive ways.
  • There’s a gentle way to flip deadlines around holidays and parties.
  • “You aren’t a butler; you choose to be a servant-leader. You’re setting the tone every step of the way. You’re a leader who’s actively thinking through problems that your client is going to come up against. “ - Ashley
  • It’s Ok to tell your client you need some time to think on a request, but let them know when you will get back with them. Take this time to experience your fear, then come up with a solution to take to your client. This puts you back in the leadership position.
  • Explaining situations with respect to your clients is the doctor’s equivalent of having a great “bedside manner”.
  • Ashley has pre-recorded video courses that can be taken at any time that teaches you how you can consistently provide an exceptional client experience from beginning to end. She also provides ideas on client pampering!

Connect with Ashley!

Ashley’s Facebook

Ashley’s Instagram

Ashley’s Pinterest 

Ashley’s Email

Links :

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Attend the Virtual IWCE - July 29-30, 2020

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Instagram

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527 

Claire Jefford #237, #325, #486 

Sandra Funk #2, 145, 520 

 

Jul 16, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Griffin Dorner, who is pregnant and due in October. Furthermore, she is the only one in her business so she’s looking for tips on how to prepare for maternity leave.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn provides the details around Griffin’s situation.
  • LuAnn speaks from her heart regarding making our babies our first priority.
  • Griffin should consider what she will and will not do during maternity leave.
  • Based on that conversation with herself and a trusted family member, friend, or peer, here are what Griffin’s next steps should be:
  • Review her projects and tie out as many as she can right now to completion.
  • Review and lock down her finances, including invoices and operating expenses.
  • Consider what happens with deficiency phone calls.
  • Consider what happens with new work inquiries.
  • Consider what to do about email and phone and who will be checking it.
  • If you have a social media presence, think about hiring it out!
  • If you have a newsletter, maybe take the time to write your blog posts now.
  • LuAnn details how Griffin may be able to put her work hat on once a week while a loved one cares for her baby as she monitors work situations.

Links :

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision.com to register.

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Starts July 22nd!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB 

LuAnn’s Website

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

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

 

Jul 14, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Vicky Serany from Southern Studio, and you’re going to hear how Vicky’s mission, vision, and goals for her company changed over the years. Sometimes you just have to make your business fit the life you have. You’ll be inspired to learn that you can revise, recalibrate, and reinvent your business at any time ever, over your entire life - and you’re going to receive lots of insights on leadership, too, so listen in!

Vicky Serany uses fresh combinations of texture, pattern, and color to create luxury interiors that meet the needs of each client. By paying attention to every detail of a project, she is able to meticulously transform the design vision into reality. Her inspiration comes from the beauty in everyday life and travel to fascinating places. Vicky’s extensive work in residential design and new home construction has earned her awards both locally and nationally. Vicky is an Allied Member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and lives in Cary with her husband, Dan. This empty nest mom jumps at the opportunity to spend time with her two grown children. When she’s not creating inspired interiors, Vicky enjoys spending time at the beach, sharing a bottle of wine with close friends, and exploring new adventures on her bucket list!

Southern Studio Interior Design was founded in 2001 and has earned a reputation as an award-winning interior design firm specializing in luxury interior spaces with casual sophistication. We believe that a well-designed home is timeless and reflects the unique personalities of its owners. The mission of Southern Studio is to provide a high level of creativity, integrity, and personalized attention to every project.

Show Highlights:

  • Vicky shares the dilemma she faced during the 2008 recession and the solution she found that actually went against everybody’s advice.
  • Vicky and her team took advantage during coronavirus to work on “Covid-19” projects from home, learning new skills.
  • “The one thing I’ve learned is that if we really focus on best business practices, we can survive and we plan for the down times.” Vicky
  • LuAnn addresses the need to have a support group within the industry - mentors, business coaches, and experts in the area.
  • Vicky provides an overview of the tools, processes, and systems that help her and her team to manage projects.
  • Every team member is empowered to use their “Make It Right” policy.
  • Learn from mistakes.
  • Think about where you want to be and where you want to go so that you’re better equipped to lead your teams into the future.
  • No matter where you are as a designer, you get there with a plan, taking action, and your support group.
  • When things are tough, it doesn’t always mean that something is wrong.
  • Don’t be paralyzed by fear!

Connect with Vicky!

Vicky’s Email

Vicky’s Website

Vicky’s Instagram

Vicky’s Blog

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

EARLY BIRD PRICING OF $99 THROUGH JULY 14TH!!

Closing the Sale Begins at Hello

July 29 & 30, 2020

Go to IWCE Vision to register.

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

LuAnn’s Website

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Other shows mentioned

Eileen Hahn #363

LuAnn Solo show: Let's Be Profitable #491

Laura Umansky #492

 

Jul 10, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Photographer Mike Van Tassell joins LuAnn in conversation today, and if you know anything about last year’s LuAnn Live, then you already know Mike. If you don’t, you will by the end of this show! As you listen, there will be no mistaking Mike’s commitment and passion to his profession and how he works with designers and architects. You’re in for a treat!

Born and raised in New York City, Mike always found himself surrounded by cutting edge art and stunning architecture. His passion for art was one that developed early in life and always stuck with him. While studying Graphic Arts & Architecture at the City University of New York, he discovered photography through his coursework and began diving into the medium as a hobby. That hobby soon flourished into a professional career as he discovered a way to combine his excitement for photography and architecture.

Mike spent the first 15 years of his professional career as a Photographer, Art Director and Creative Director for marketing organizations across New Jersey and New York City. Today, as an independent photographer, he is able to combine 15 years of client-facing services, along with his vision as an artist to bring a best in class customer experience to his clients.

Mike is equally devoted to delivering high-end photography, as well as an unmatched customer experience to each of his clients. Specializing in partnerships with architects, interior designers, and what sets him apart is his ability to truly partner and collaborate with his clients as fellow artists with a vision for their work. Mike takes time in his process to hear each of their unique needs and apply a trained eye to his photography, ultimately delivering stand-out images that capture his client’s artistic vision and help their business to thrive.

His partnerships span across multiple verticals including residential, commercial, academic, civic & cultural, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. His photography is used across advertising and marketing campaigns, professional portfolios, and design competitions globally. 

Show Highlights:

  • In LuAnn’s observation and experience, there is a vast difference between average photography and excellent photography.
  • Mike’s goal is to help designers take their photos to the next level, as well as elevate their online presence.
  • Mike shares how interior designers can successfully work in partnership with photographers.
  • Avoid trend photography, and photograph your spaces the way you want them to appear in your portfolio.
  • Once you’ve established your style and your brand, photography can complement that by getting your photos where they need to be.
  • Mike explains how a good photographer will be able to adapt to a designer’s style by using supplemental lighting, natural sunlight, subtracting light, or by replicating sunlight with strobe lights, for example.
  • Capture photos that take prospective clients back into that space that you designed.
  • Quality photographs of your design work is a key component in marketing your business and cultivating new clients.
  • Here’s what Mike wished designers knew that could make their projects better!
  • LuAnn and Mike reminisce over his photography session at last year’s LuAnn Live.
  • “Photographers are like pizza. Everyone thinks they have the best pizza until they have the best pizza.” - Mike
  • If you’re looking at your photography and you’re not getting a visceral reaction, then it might be time to consider a different photographer.
  • Photography should be factored in when rebranding your website, as the photographs will be the first thing that a prospective client will notice.
  • Remember: Photography is a partnership, a collaboration between creatives.

Connect with Mike!

Mike’s Email

Mike’s Website

Mike’s Instagram

Mike’s LinkedIn 

Mike’s Blog Post: How to Bring Your Interior Design Style to Life Through Photography

Links :

LuAnn Live - Coming February 2021

Join the E-Mail List to Get Updates!

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Sarah Winchester #444

Laurel Smith #545

Nicole Heymer #466

Nancy Ganzekaufer #256

Kae Whitaker #26

Raquel Langworthy #343

Stephen Karlisch #369

David Livingston #51

Sara Brennan #524, #514, #463

 

Jul 9, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Rasheeda Gray joins LuAnn in today’s #blacklivesmatter episode. Rasheeda shares her personal experiences in that we all may learn, benefit, and grow. 

Rasheeda Gray is the owner and principal designer of Gray Space Interiors, a full-service design firm in the Philadelphia area. Launched in 2016, Gray Space is devoted to curating a client-focused, transformative, and seamless design experience.  With over 75 residential and commercial projects completed, the Gray Space approach to design can be found at the intersection of creativity, functionality, and process. 

Rasheeda's path into design begins at the tail end of a fifteen year career in Marketing and Communications with the nation's top insurance companies. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and International Business as well as a Masters of Business Administration degree (MBA) with a concentration in Marketing.  Additionally, she holds a professional certificate in Interior Design from Temple University. Features include HGTV, Good Day Philadelphia, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest Pro, Designers Today, and more. Rasheeda is also the co-founder of Gray Real Estate Group, a real estate development company, along-side her husband, Jake and together they have two children, Jacob Jr., and Kennedy.

Show Highlights:

  • Rasheeda shares from the heart - her experiences as a black woman, mom, wife, corporate leader, and designer.
  • Here are Rasheeda’s ideas for action:
  • Follow, support, and share the #sharethemic initiative, both the original movement founded by Bozoma St John and her colleagues and ingeniously brought to our industry by Albie Buabeng. Albie is on Instagram at Albie Knows so follow her for information and updates. To learn more about Albie, please go back to episode #348 when she was on this podcast.
  • Vote, show up, make sure the people in government enact laws that result in real changes.
  • Representation within our industry. Shelter magazines, live events, show houses, product licensing, product development, everything. Look around and speak up to the ones in charge when you do not see our black colleagues at the table.
  • Donate to organizations who make it possible to make change. In the industry, Rasheeda mentioned Black Artists Design Guild and The Black Interior Design organization. Outside the industry consider the NAACP.
  • And finally, do not let this be only a moment, a hashtag. Keep talking, keep learning, stay accountable, teach your friends and children so real change becomes a reality.
  • Please consider where and how you will show up to support her and all of our black colleagues and friends.

Connect with Rasheeda!

Rasheeda’s Email 

Rasheeda’s Website

Rasheeda’s Instagram

Rasheeda’s Facebook 

Rasheeda’s Pinterest

Links :

Share the Mic Now

albieknows

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service.

Their popular visualization tool is now available on Lee Jofa Workroom furniture!

Kravet

Other shows mentioned for shownotes, to link to and to tag in SM

Rasheeda Gray #267

Kim Kuhteubl #73

Albie Buabeng #348

Cat French #376

Britany Simon #490

Kae Whitaker #26, #114, #259, #274, #556

Amy Flurry #323, #108

Nicole McGuire #537

Fred Berns #174

 

Jul 7, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, LuAnn’s guest, Sara Hillery, shares her top tips for client retention and sound advice that you’ll be able to apply to your own business. Take notes or listen to it a second time, too, because you’re sure to hear some tidbits you missed the first time!

Sara’s approach involves incorporating the fine and rare with the utilitarian and available, creating beautiful and functional spaces. With a focus on honoring each client’s personal history, the firm excels at updating and transforming client’s interior spaces both architecturally and decoratively making previously acquired and antique pieces more relevant and practical. While Sara draws inspiration from her travels to Europe, India, and Japan, her style invariably reflects her Southern heritage and familial roots in Virginia, Texas, and New Orleans.

Upon graduating from the University of Virginia in 2004, Sara turned her focus to architecture and interiors and received her MFA in Interior Environments and ASID certification at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2007.

After beginning her career in interior design working for a design group in Richmond, Virginia, Sara relocated to Houston where she became a Project Designer at Lucas Eilers Design Associates. While at Lucas Eilers, Sara’s projects received numerous local awards and accolades including Best in Show, Best Vacation Home, and Best Residential Green Design, and were featured in numerous publications.

In 2011 Sara opened Sara Hillery Interior Design. As a proud working mother of 3, Sara excels at making design family friendly while still remaining creative, elegant, and timeless.  RHome, New Orleans Home and Lifestyles, and Boomer Magazine have featured her work. Sara Hillery Interior Design has completed projects in Louisiana, New York, Texas, and Virginia.

Show Highlights:

  • “Clients aren’t just clients, they’re a part of my life.” - Sara
  • Sara has genuine interest in each client. The more she knows and understands about them, the better she can serve them.
  • Sara’s detailed client questionnaire serves as a reference throughout the relationship and is updated as she gets to know the client.
  • Setting up the client’s expectations at the very beginning of a project is very important, and Sara offers her strategies.
  • LuAnn shares how we sometimes function out of fear, but we can learn how to operate from a place of faith that doesn’t rock us when we encounter a surprise.
  • More tips from Sara regarding client retention throughout the project.
  • Remember that there is a big emotional tie between the client and the work you are doing for their home.
  • Don’t forget a unique, personal gift to present to your client when the project ends. Sara has a fantastic idea for you to consider!
  • Bottom line in client retention: Pay attention to people, learn the things about them that matter, and act on ways you can show that you appreciate them.

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Houzz 

Sara’s Website

Sara’s Instagram 

Sara’s Facebook 

Sara’s Email

Links :

LuAnn’s Blogpost on Faith or Fear

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Price: $2195

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio A Well Designed Business

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned to link.

Candy Scott #279

Wendy Woloshchuk #316, #527

Ellie Mroz #374

 

Jul 3, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! LuAnn welcomes Brad Leavitt back to the show, and they are going to be discussing what your builder wants you to know. Don’t miss this motivating conversation, it will be like being a fly on the wall to an exclusive builder’s club!

AFT Construction is an award-winning construction firm and has been nationally published in magazines such as: Fine Home Building, Luxe Interiors and Design, and Professional Builder. Brad Leavitt is an energetic public speaker and ambassador for many national brands including Kohler, Pella, Cambria, Elkay, and Post-it Notes. Brad completed a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from BYU in 2005 and worked on notable projects around Phoenix, including the Omni Montelucia in Paradise Valley.

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. AFT has continued to exceed industry standards and create strong client relationships based on integrity, reliability, and quality. Brad and his wife Ashley have 6 children, 5 girls, and 1 boy. Brad is active with all 6 of his children, serves in his local community, and loves all sports.

Show Highlights:

  • Brad and LuAnn discuss the importance of a design book.
  • The more a designer puts on paper, the more accountable the builder will be.
  • As your expertise grows, so will the level of detail you deliver in your design book.
  • When you provide a builder with an example of your design book, that enables him to sell your value to the client.
  • Brad shares how CAD brings extra value to the design book.
  • It’s important to reach out to non-competing designers through social media and other networking opportunities to find out how they’re doing things.
  • Brad encourages designers to chase the next-level project. You perfect your process and refine it after each job by doing a project autopsy.
  • LuAnn covers the benefits to attracting builders who want to work with you.
  • Brad divulges the tips to attract the right builders to work with you.
  • The bottom line is this is a relationship-driven industry!

Connect with Brad!

Brad’s Email

Brad’s Website 

The AFT Construction Podcast

Brad’s Instagram (AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Pinterest (AFT_Construction)

Brad’s Facebook

Brad’s LinkedIn

Links :

Design-Build For Profit - Coming Late Summer / Early Fall!

With Jenny Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors

Get on the Email List HERE!

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends TODAY, July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Other shows mentioned to include in show notes:

Brad’s other show: #542

 

Jul 2, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Angela in Pennsylvania. Angela has 20 years of experience in design but considers herself somewhat of a baby designer since she only opened her own business two years ago. The Covid-19 event has had a huge impact on her virtual close rate, and she’s needing some guidance.

Listen in to hear more about the dilemma that Angela faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara WWLD!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details of Angela’s dilemma:
  • Angela has resisted switching her business model and has picked up a few clients virtually, for which she receives a small deposit.
  • She presents them with a slide presentation with fabrics delivered via mail, and the clients love what they see.
  • When the client sees the invoice, however, they offer various excuses to back out.
  • Angela’s close rate prior to Covid-19 was about 90%; now it’s around 10%.
  • Here are some of LuAnn’s suggestions for Angela:
  • Think outside the box!
  • It’s very helpful to have an automatic salary withdrawal for yourself every week, even if it’s small. When you know you have to make money, somehow you do it.
  • Since Angela is having a hard time closing full-service projects, perhaps she should consider adjusting her business model, after all. Angela could lean into a temporary consultancy model, as there have been other designers who have had great success with this.
  • Don’t mail out the presentation unless the fee is paid up front.
  • A 90% close rate means prices are too low.
  • Get real and examine the entire process from beginning to end with the client to discover the reason why they are backing out of their deals. What signs were missed or ignored along the way?
  • In wrapping up, LuAnn encourages Angela to go back and think about her “why”. If Angela truly loves being self-employed, she should stay the course and keep perfecting her process, because this will increase her confidence which will, in turn, increase her profits.

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Price: $129

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

The first of 6 monthly meetings start in August, and there are 3 spots open!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned:

Duncan Blair #301

WWLD #541

 

Jun 30, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! On today’s show, LuAnn chats with Rebecca Robinson from Monarch Lane Interiors. Rebecca is one of the leading home renovation experts in Tennessee, and she’ll be sharing how she explains her value to contractors and builders and how this results in a full pipeline for her and her firm. You’ll also hear how Mydoma Studio makes this process even easier for her to pitch to contractors and easier for her to effectively manage the projects once she lands them. Don’t miss this conversation!

Monarch Lane Interiors is a Full Service Interior Design firm by Rebecca Robinson. With 20 years of experience remodeling the homes, offices, and commercial Studios of successful professionals around Nashville and surrounding counties. Rebecca is involved in every aspect of remodeling from drawing floor plans to color and selections to managing contractors and overseeing the design and construction details.

A customer relationship specialist, Rebecca has formed lasting friendships with her clients, helping some with multiple homes and projects. Her clients describe her as passionate, positive, and a problem solver.

Specializing in Kitchen and Bath Design, Rebecca holds the certification of Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer-AKBD. She knows the industry guidelines and codes to keep your home’s best interests in mind. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association -NKBA, the longest and largest established design organization. Also an Allied Member of ASID- American Society of Interior Designers. Rebecca graduated from O’More College of Design with a Bachelor’s in Interior Design. 

Rebecca launched her design firm in 2006 after working several years managing a team of designers at a local furniture retailer. It is there that she gained the knowledge of flooring, furniture construction, and textiles, as well as managing store operations, client budgets, and organizing the delivery and warehouse team. Her experience designing Model homes also gave her the eye for staging and furniture and accessories. A long-term resident of Nashville, Rebecca knows the area, along with real estate and design trends to enhance the home’s value.

Show Highlights:

  • Rebecca shares how she saw the need to work on the contractor / designer relationship.
  • Here are some reasons why contractors don’t like to work with designers.
  • Rebecca details a private package she ended up creating that contractors can buy as a gift to their clients.
  • Mydoma Studio allows clients and contractors to log in to a project that you’re working on, and Rebecca sits down and shows them how to use the website.
  • The client has the option to purchase additional design work when their initial gifted time has been used.
  • LuAnn and Rebecca covers some of the ways that Mydoma Studio makes communicating and managing a project so much easier.
  • How Rebecca reaches out to contractors that she does not personally know.
  • “When I present to a contractor, I don’t just tell them all these things. I actually bring my laptop and show them Mydoma. Every single time.” Rebecca
  • Rebecca addresses the rebranding of her business in 2019 and all the changes that accompanied it.
  • Sometimes you just have to jump into your fear and go for it!
  • LuAnn imparts some wise words about making mistakes.
  • Business retreats are powerful and can bring great results! Do you want harmony in your business? Check out Rebecca’s Designer Notes Retreat.

Connect with Rebecca!

Rebecca’s Website

FREE Download! The Interior Designer's Guide to Working with Contractors

Designer Notes Retreat

Links :

19hours The Blueprint - Mydoma Studio

July 15th, 2020

Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th

Full Price: $129 effective July 1st

Buy Wholesale For Profit with Traci Connell

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

Mydoma Studio A Well Designed Business

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Other shows mentioned to link:

Brad Leavitt #542

John Dupra Revel Woods #329

Allie Finkel #452

Sarah Daniele #91, #177, #555

Fred Berns #337, #393, #460

Dixie Willard #272

Christie Leu #182

Darci Hether #220

Lisa Escobar #258

Krystle Pickens #543

 

Jun 26, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Desi Creswell joins LuAnn in a conversation today about breaking old habits and how to think about the same things in new ways. You’ll hear about how important it is to get real about your life by setting goals and expectations that serve you in totality so that you can run both your life and your business in sustainable ways. Get ready for some fantastic a-ha moments!

Desi Creswell is a Certified Life and Business Coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed so they can intentionally achieve next-level success with more freedom and fulfillment. An awarding-winning interior designer who has worked for world-renowned design and architecture firms prior to establishing her own design practice, Desi is uniquely equipped to empower her clients with an essential blend of industry specific expertise and mindset coaching. Her passion is to help designers build thriving businesses that enrich and support their lives as a whole.

Desi will be one of the co-authors in LuAnn’s next book, A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume II.

Show Highlights:

  • Desi explains that many designers are solopreneurs and wear both the CEO and the technician hats.
  • The CEO is responsible for the vision of the business.
  • Many designers spend too much time as technicians and not enough time developing their capacity to run the business as CEO.
  • If this happens, a designer basically becomes a glorified assistant for their own business.
  • You can’t afford to NOT take the time to get intentional about where you’re headed.
  • How is your business serving your life?
  • Desi covers CEO tasks and questions for consideration.
  • Develop a strategy and be intentional about the way you’re spending your time.
  • Think about what is possible, and make sure your life goals and business goals support each other.
  • “The intention of growing your business and setting big goals for yourself is not just about the results, it is about the person you get to become once that goal is realized.” - Desi
  • Be aware of places you might stumble!
  • Desi and LuAnn share a plethora of tips, tricks, and strategies to get you on your way to honoring commitments to yourself as you grow your life and your business by developing your CEO mindset.

Connect with Desi!

Desi’s Website

Desi’s Instagram

Desi’s Email

Schedule Mini Session HERE

The Interior Designer’s Get It Done Daily Planner - FREE Download HERE

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Other shows mentioned

Desi Creswell #475

Madeleine MacRae #315, 283

Amber Dawn #478

Krystle Pickens #543

Nicole Cole #509

Amber De La Garza #385

Sara Lynn Brennan #463, 514, 524

Duncan Blair #301

 

Jun 25, 2020

Kae is a Digital Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping service providers create automated marketing systems that close the gap in leads lost, enhance their sales processes, and keep customers returning bringing their friends.

Kae’s philosophy is it takes the right strategy coupled with the proper tools to execute a well thought out plan.  She takes a tailored approach to helping her clients satisfy their online revenue goals, by paying attention to the unique needs, audience and capacity of each business, and creating strategies that are beneficial for not only the customers but the companies as well.

She would love the opportunity to speak with you about your digital marketing goals and how she can help.  Kae offers complimentary calls to talk through your needs and see how she can best help you meet your goals.

Connect with Kae!

Kae’s Website

Kae’s Instagram

Kae’s Facebook

Kae’s Twitter

Kae’s Pinterest

Kae’s Email

Oprah Show on YouTube:

Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 1)

Where Do We Go From Here? (Part 2)

Book:

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts by LuAnn Nigara & Friends

Other shows mentioned

Corey Damen Jenkins #549

Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274

 

Jun 23, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest on today’s show is her good friend, Sara Daniele, the founder and CEO of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio also happens to be the second-longest standing sponsor of this podcast!

Don’t miss their conversation because you’ll want to hear all of the exciting details about Mydoma Studio’s 19H The Blueprint workshop that is coming up in July. This course will help design professionals, like you, build resilience into your business, no matter what crisis comes your way.

Sarah Daniele is the CEO and co-founder of Mydoma Studio. Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit; workflow software to organize design projects from beginning to end and a thriving design community. The first version of Mydoma Studio was built to fulfill a personal need. It was the encouragement of her peers that Sarah Daniele turned tech CEO and built Mydoma Studio for the interior design industry. Sarah is passionate about building tools and technology to allow interior designers to grow their businesses. Sarah has previously spoken at leading industry events and technology panels. Sarah and Mydoma Studio have also been featured in Designers Today, Home Accents Today, Editor at Large, and Kitchen, Bath Design News, and A Well Designed Business podcast. 

Show Highlights:

  • The 19Hours digital conference replaced High Point in April.
  • The upcoming 19H The Blueprint will take place July 15th, 2020!
  • You didn’t have to attend April’s conference to get benefits from the new workshop.
  • Sarah shares how this newest course has come about.
  • Sarah is an interior designer who happens to also run and operate a software company.
  • LuAnn kicks off the workshop at 10:30am EST!
  • A comprehensive recording will be sent to all attendees within 24 hours after the event.
  • Sarah gives an overview of what to expect with each presentation of this 5-step methodology:
  • Step 1: Learn how to target your ideal customers
  • Step 2: Set your project up for success
  • Step 3: Organization & Presentation
  • Step 4: Checks & Balances
  • Step 5: Presenting the project closeout
  • There will be time dedicated after each session for Q&A.
  • “This is the how. This is getting stuff done!” - Sarah
  • This methodology teaches you how to build an adaptable process.
  • For more information, visit 19hours The Blueprint.

Connect with Sara!

Sara’s Website: Mydoma Studio

For more Information: 19hours The Blueprint

July 15th, 2020

Pre-Sale Price: $99 through June 30th

Full Price: $129 effective July 1st

Join our designer community on Facebook! Mydoma Studio Designers

Email: sarah@mydomastudio.com 

Links :

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Other shows mentioned to link to and to tag in SM

Sarah Daniele #91, #177

Janelle Photopoulos #364

Wendy Woloshchuk #527 

Stacey Brown Randall #93 

Ashley Uhl #412

Susan Brunstrum #36

 

Jun 19, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday and LuAnn is pleased to have her good friend, Traci Connell, joining her to talk about their newest venture, the Buy Wholesale for Profit program.

Listen in as they give you a sneak-peek of The 6 Steps to Making Maximum Profit through Buying Wholesale!

Traci Connell is an inviting, engaging, and approachable mentor who has overcome personal setbacks to build the business of her dreams - a multi-million dollar interior design business that she grew and scaled while navigating single-motherhood in the wake of immense tragedy. Traci is an expert in delivering unique design with ease of mind. She says: “What good is a luxurious home if you can’t actually live in it?” That philosophy drives her to provide high-end interior design that really lasts for every one of her clients. From initial to final details, each project is outlined through a state-of-the-art project management system, streamlining the process and enhancing the client experience. Over the years, Traci has been recognized with numerous local and national awards and publications in the interior design industry as well as many accolades within the business community. She recently launched her coaching and consulting business to teach other designers and female entrepreneurs how to get unstuck and scale their businesses just like she did using her proven system that she tested and developed over the past 8 years. She is really excited to share this system with others.

Show Highlights:

  • Traci shares the story of how she decided to grow and scale, and how she developed this information into a proven program.
  • Traci relates the benefits to designers who follow her course.
  • The Buy Wholesale for Profit modules that Traci details are:
  • Pivoting Your Business Mindset - The differences between consultancy and furnishings business models, the procurement timeline, and the advantages of wholesale margins vs. retail. Plus: Traci’s Furniture Revenue Forecasting Tool to project past a NET income of $100k.
  • Developing a Buying Co-op - The characteristics of successful partners, the desired strengths, and red flags. Plus: Traci’s Business Formation Checklist and template to develop and organizational chart for partnership success.
  • Outreach to Vendors/Manufacturers - How to develop a list of target vendors, and how to communicate your value to vendors. Plus: Traci’s cheat sheet of preferred manufacturers and tip sheet for communicating with vendors.
  • Pricing Your Furnishings and Design Fees - Your pricing sweet spot, how to convince clients to buy, and how to develop a budget. Plus: Traci’s preferred method for developing a design fee and furnishings budget.
  • Processes and Systems for Expansion - The tools of a successful reseller, which project management software should you use, and the timeline from presentation to installation. Plus: Traci’s Top Tip Sheet for considering a receiving warehouse and a no-fail project timeline template.
  • Wrap-Up - During this module, Traci answers lingering questions, helps you put all of this information together, and helps you decide on a clear path forward.
  • You still have to look at the local artisans and support the showrooms in your area!
  • Please visit the website for more details and information about the deliverables built into this course, which include a private FB specifically for the attendees of the course. You can ask Traci questions between sessions and connect with each other for support and help!
  • All of the sessions are recorded and you will have lifetime access to them to watch, in case you miss a session or if you want to re-visit them at any point in the future.
  • “When we don’t have the confidence, it’s because we don’t have the tools behind us to lean on.” Traci Connell

Connect with Traci!

Traci’s Email 

Traci’s Coaching Website

Traci’s Interiors Website

Traci’s Instagram

Traci’s Facebook

Traci’s Pinterest

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Open Your Trade Account & Get 10% Off Any One Purchase of Kravet Fabric, Wallpaper, or Trim!

Use Code at Checkout: AWDB10

Kravet

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Traci's original appearance on the show #525

Other shows mentioned: 

Terri Taylor #548

Dina Holland #354

 

Jun 18, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from Leslie, a designer that LuAnn happened to meet last winter in Chicago at the Power House Luxury Conference. Leslie is struggling to educate customers who walk into her hybrid full-service design firm / large retail showroom and expect free design services.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to LuAnn Nigara!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details surrounding Leslie’s dilemma and identifies with the consumer education stru
  • It is likely that your messaging is not clear if you are constantly explaining yourself, your business, and your process to people. Once you are clear, the struggle will be over.
  • LuAnn suggests that Leslie carefully analyze all of her revenue streams, using this enlightening and motivating exercise:
  • What was your gross revenue last year?
  • Identify all sources of revenue: design fees, product sales from the showroom, markup on outside contracted goods and services…what others do you have if any?
  • What is the breakdown in gross revenue by category?
  • What is the net profit margin of each category?
  • What one or two revenue streams do you like doing the most?
  • Are either of your favorite ways to make money also one of your top producing streams?
  • If the answer is no, is there a way to increase their gross revenue capacity or their gross profit margins?
  • The 2 big things to consider from this exercise:
  • Step 1: Get clear on where you earn the most and then move in that direction.
  • Step 2: If the competition is zigging, you need to zag.
  • Have a beautiful hand-out made for the furniture salespeople, designers, and customer service reps to refer to and to give out to all potential customers that come in the store.
  • LuAnn details all the information that the hand-out might hold, such as furniture services on one side of the hand-out and full service design on the other side.
  • Educating the team members on the two different services is very important, so that they can present the hand-out to customers and answer questions with confidence.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

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

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

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Starts July 22nd!

Are You Interested in a 2 Million Plus Mastermind with LuAnn?

Email her at info@luannnigara.com and put “mastermind” in the subject line.

She’ll set up a call and see if it’s a good fit for you!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

When your client wants the finest in luxury appliances for their kitchen:

Choose Monogram!

Are You Set Up with Monogram's Design Partner Trade Program?

 

Jun 16, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! LuAnn’s guest today is Shirry Dolgin. Hold on to your seat as Shirry humorously recounts her long-ago experience with a sales tax audit that was the furthest thing from funny at the time. You just might identify with the gamut of emotions that she experienced during this period and hopefully learn from her ordeal!

Shirry Dolgin is a rising star in the southern California interior design community. Having established her firm, ASD Interiors INC. in 2004, Shirry has an impressive portfolio of projects, and has been featured in a variety of media outlets including multiple TV appearances. Specializing in large scale residential and commercial projects and an industry expert in construction, she has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable renovations interior designers in the industry.

A native of Los Angeles and the daughter of the owner of a construction company, Shirry was exposed to the world of design at an early age. She went on to study performing arts in Boston as a dancer, then attended the prestigious Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising in L.A., first in the visual communication department, then transferring to interior design.  

Shirry’s on-screen career began in 2006, when she was asked to participate in a renovation project for television. Given her background in performing arts, she was a natural. Her TV credits include a design and remodel segment on the KTLA morning show, an appearance on HGTV’s Selling L.A. and a feature of her live/work office on You Live in What? for HGTV. She has participated in several episodes of House Hunters Renovation and was a two-time winner on HGTV’s design competition show, Design Wars. ASD Interiors projects have been featured in Traditional Home and Apartment Therapy, and published in the Kitchen Bible. ASD has received the “Best of HOUZZ” in service and design for the past nine years.

Show Highlights:

  • Shirry shares the backstory that led up to the letter from the State Board of Equalization requesting a sales tax audit.
  • Shirry was working with a CPA that didn’t reconcile her account on a monthly basis.
  • The audit covers a 3-year period.
  • The CPA requested that Shirry gather all of her documents, which was bewildering to an unprepared Shirry.
  • The CPA submitted all of the information that they were able to gather.
  • The State Board of Equalization determined that Shirry was not properly collecting sales tax and demanded a very large sum of money, which Shirry did not have.
  • Shirry requested an appointment with the State Board of Equalization’s superior manager in order to understand how they arrived at their figures.
  • The State Board of Equalization’s response to Shirry stunned her!
  • You don’t know what you don’t know.
  • Shirry shares what she learned from this meeting.
  • “I learned more going through that audit than I did in three years of college to get a design degree.” - Shirry
  • How do you pay back $43,000 that you do not have?
  • LuAnn explains the “Red Pen System” that she uses at Window Works.
  • Find out if the CPA found redemption in Shirry’s eyes post-audit!
  • Learn to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.
  • Your action item:
  • Download the handbook of equalization for your particular state (.gov address).
  • Shirry:
  • Collects 35% across the board for Residential work.
  • Has this “procurement fee” conversation with her clients.
  • Shirry and LuAnn offer additional tips on collecting sales tax.

Links :

Shirry’s Email 

Shirry’s Website

Shirry’s Instagram

Shirry’s Facebook

Shirry’s Pinterest

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Other shows mentioned: 

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Eric Ross #504, #505

Sally Williams #496

Laura Michaels #372

Dina Holland #354

Sandra Funk #520

 

 

Jun 12, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! It’s WTF, Window Treatment Friday! In today’s episode, LuAnn and her friend and co-host of WTF, Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska, explore how custom awnings can be the answer that your clients are looking for and the solution you need for your business and its profitability

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.

Show Highlights:

  • Vita discusses how she arrived at her revelation that awnings could add revenue to her bottom line.
  • Awnings are a creative up-sell that also serves a need for your client.
  • Awnings are particularly desirable to high value design projects right now due to COVID-19 concerns because:
  • more families are taking “staycations” this summer.
  • being outside is a safe way to socialize.
  • this can be a place to “work from home”.
  • children can sit and do their homework, read a book, or enjoy the air being safely protected from UV rays.
  • there is a reduction in energy costs by 25%.
  • LuAnn covers entry-level price points.
  • Interior designers should be interested in selling awnings if they’re decorating outside spaces, anyway.
  • Reasons why awnings are superior to pergolas.
  • Be aware that your window treatment specialists can help you with this.
  • What you can do now:
  • Start speaking with your current clients about awnings and let them know that you are a resource for this.
  • Research which window treatment and awning specialists are in your area and set up appointments.
  • Download the Window Works guide to Awnings by going to windowworksnj.com (if you like it, let Leslie Carothers at Savour Partnership know, she would surely appreciate it!).
  • The number one way to increase your revenue is to sell more things to your current clients.
  • Remember that for both the short-term and long-term it is important to always create diverse revenue streams that align with your design firm.

Links :

Watch WTF Live Shows on FB

Learn More About Working with Window Works

Learn About Working with Vita

Learn About Exciting Windows

Learn More About Leslie Carothers & Creating a Lead Magnet for Your Business

Receive a Free Subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine


Attend the Virtual IWCE

Learn About the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America)

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Stop Buying Retail and Start Making Maximum Profit

KICKING OFF July 22, 2020

Early Bird Pricing! Register Now: $1895

Early Bird ends July 3rd! Pricing goes up to $2195.

Register HERE!

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

If you loved this show, listen to these for information referenced by previous guests:

Leslie Carothers / Savour Partnership: #458

Leslie Price: #413

Nancy Ganzekaufer: #256, #389

Nicole Heymer: #125, #317, #466

 

Jun 11, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from another one of LuAnn’s coaching clients, who was experiencing a late invoicing issue due to some extremely hectic circumstances in her life.

Listen in as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!

 

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details surrounding her coaching client’s dilemma.
  • The client was hesitant to send out invoicing at such a late date and LuAnn prepared her to by saying that some clients would fight her, some would pay her and some would ignore her. 
  • The client did send out the invoicing, knowing that she did the work and earned the money, but was ready to eat some crow if she couldn’t collect payment.
  • Apologizing appropriately and owning her mistake netted her payment from most of her clients, but there was one in particular that was adversarial.
  • After a few not so fun email exchanges the client ultimately sends this email: “You will receive payment for the invoices in the same timeframe you billed me."
  • LuAnn shares the cordial response that the client wanted to send, but LuAnn had a more appropriate response in mind, since this was clearly a compassionless, bad-mannered client.
  • The key here is to focus on the agreement to pay, which the client had agreed to do. Leave the emotion out of the equation. You don’t want to introduce any other elements that can take the conversation away from the primary goal, which is collecting the money. 
  • LuAnn shares her thoughts on the various responses that the client might have sent, and suggests that the client allow herself grace when she makes mistakes. The hope and goal is to learn from the mistake so that it is avoided in the future.

Links / Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buywholesaleforprofit.com

Starts July 22nd!

A Big THANK YOU to This Podcast Sponsor:

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

 

Jun 8, 2020

Nationally acclaimed interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins mixes vibrant colors with layered patterns to create architecturally inspired spaces that are, at once, elegant, inventive and timeless. Taking cues from runway fashion, his residences feature luxurious and refined materials including intricate wallcoverings, sculptural lighting and stately furnishings. Jenkins’ goal “is to ensure that my clients’ homes are always classic, chic and without an expiration date,” states the designer. Most recently Jenkins was honored with Traditional Home’s “New Trad” Rising Star of Design Award, as well as an extensive cover feature highlighting a recent commission. His work has also garnered attention from numerous publications including Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Veranda, Domino, and HGTV.

Connect with Corey!

Corey’s Website

Corey’s Instagram

Corey’s Original Appearance on the show: #127

 

Jun 2, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Terri Taylor joins LuAnn on today’s show and she’s going to be walking you through how she calculates budgets on the fly. You’re going to learn what a powerful tool it can be for your design business!

One of Terri’s passions is helping interior designers get their firms organized and profitable. Make sure you take notes because Terri’s going to detail how she does this in an understandable, doable way! Hopefully, it will inspire you and give you the courage and language to have that tricky conversation about budget with your next client.

Terri Taylor is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer at design conferences and showrooms throughout the country. She speaks on a number of topics related to the business of interior design, including: business practices, sales, marketing, motivation, leadership, success, and personal growth.

Ms. Taylor is nationally known as an interior design business expert and coach who teaches and mentors interior designers to help them create successful design businesses.

Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS, and NCIDQ.

Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation.

Show Highlights:

  • Using an Excel spreadsheet with the items found in a room and broken out by a room during a consult is simple and efficient.
  • If you can get a client to agree with you on the price of furniture pieces three or four times, the client is going to say yes to you when you ask to be hired.
  • You have to do your homework and know how to figure these prices out beforehand.
  • When you get all the prices on your yellow pad, add it up using easy, rounded-up numbers, and write the total. Hand this to your client, and don’t say anything.
  • They might say they didn’t know it was going to be that much, and Okay. Then you’ve just sold the whole job.
  • If they counter with a lower price, agree with them, then ask them which parts they would like to take out?
  • This is not the time to educate your client on quality and value, you’re just determining their thoughts on prices.
  • Once you agree on the total of the furniture, you can pull out a design fee based on 15% - 20% of the furniture budget. This is a small number and easy to sell, but keep your percentage private. Terri offers more details on how to do this.
  • There is a way to create revenue of millions of dollars a year, but it’s about team and organization.
  • When you actually design the room, you don’t pay attention to the individual pieces but are just keeping the overall budget in mind.
  • You have gotten the agreement based on concept and budget.
  • What you can learn by floating good, better, and best prices for individual pieces.
  • Your answers have to make sense and you need to speak with confidence.
  • Tips on collecting your design fee.
  • Although you charge a flat fee, you still have to plan your hours and know how much time each part of the project you have to complete its so that the flat fee you charged is profitable.

·         As you gain experience (meaning as you have perfected your back end, your process, your efficiencies as well as your budget and sales presentation), in order to make more money you should be striving to earn more money on the furniture items (instead of raising your design fees above 20-25%).

·         Terri shares information on her various online courses and the services she offers at Interior Design Business Academy.

Links :

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara: COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

LuAnn's new course taught by Traci Connell: 

Buy Wholesale For Profit

Connect with Terri!

Terri’s Website:

Go to Interior Design Business Academy and sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter to get FREE business tips and strategies and invitations to my monthly FREE Design Business CEUs.

Terri’s Email: Terri@InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

FREE Trial! A One-Stop Shop to Keep Everything Organized!

Check Out Their Client Portal and Time Tracking Features!

My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business

Take Advantage of Kravet Inc.’s Extensive Digital Tools & 24/7 Customer Service!

Set Up a Virtual Appointment with Your Local Sales Representative:

Kravet

For More Shows About Fees & Budgets:

Sandra Funk #520, #145, #02

Sarah Magness #384

Cheryl Clendenon #482

Laura Michaels #372

Sally Williams #496

Other shows mentioned:

Nancy Ganzekaufer:#389, #256, #159, #15

Brad Leavitt #542

Traci Connell #525

 

 

May 29, 2020

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! It’s Power Talk Friday, and LuAnn’s friend, Jamie Lieberman, joins the show today. Jamie also happens to be her lawyer and co-author of their upcoming book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Vol 2, coming Fall 2020.

Jamie will be covering five steps to engaging effectively in any negotiation. This is a great topic because you can dramatically improve your profitability when you sharpen these skills. Negotiating is a learned skill, just like learning how to do floor plans, and just like learning to do floor plans, negotiating is a critical skill to ensure your success, so listen in and take some notes!

Jamie Lieberman is an attorney, podcaster and entrepreneur dedicated to making legal accessible and to sharing the message that legal does not have to be scary. As the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives and business owners to help her clients grow and protect their businesses.

She leads an all female, virtual team focused on providing clients with advice on a wide range of subjects such as intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC and general business law as well negotiation strategies. Jamie is a highly experienced speaker and is the co-host for the FearLess Business Podcast.

Show Highlights:

  • If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re a sales person.
  • Determine your tolerance for risk.
  • Negotiation is about collaboration, and needs a holistic approach.
  • Bargaining is what most people think negotiation is.
  • There is so much strategy and research that goes into a true negotiation that by the time you get to bargaining, it’s an afterthought.
  • Jamie details the five steps to effectively engage in negotiation, which are:
  1. Strategy
  2. Setting the Climate
  3. Getting Information
  4. Clarifying Positions & Interests
  5. Bargaining
  • After those five steps, that’s when you can memorialize your agreement in a contract.
  • Don’t be surprised if you have multiple waves of negotiation before you actually sign a contract.
  • Know your boundaries and know when and if it’s appropriate to walk away.

Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’sBlog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business?

LuAnn Nigara COB

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

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Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

Connect with Jamie!

Jamie’sWebsite

Jamie’s Facebook

Jamie’s Instagram

Jamie’s LinkedIn

Jamie’s FearLess Podcast

Jamie’s YouTube Channel

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Previous Shows Mentioned:

Kwame Christian: #129
Jamie Lieberman #454
Article.com Jillian Cross #367

 

May 28, 2020

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s time for another episode of “What Would Lu Do?” where you ask the questions and LuAnn helps out with the answers.

Today’s question comes from LuAnn’s coaching client, Jill, who gave LuAnn her blessing to share this sticky situation on the podcast. Jill has a new client who is the daughter of a very good client (and friend) of hers. The new client had a general contractor present at an in-home consultation for window treatments and the GC was very opinionated, contradicting Jill's advice at every turn. To make matters worse, the new client gave deference to every word he said. 

Listen in to hear multiple dilemmas that Jill faces, as LuAnn digs into the details, susses out the situation, and lays out her reasoning on the resolutions.

If you are not working with a coach or perhaps you don’t have a business mentor or business bestie to provide guidance, this is the perfect opportunity to email LuAnn the burning issues that you need insight on and she’ll answer them on air. Please send your questions to luannnigara.com/wwld!

Show Highlights:

  • LuAnn shares the details of her coaching client, Jill’s, dilemma.
  • LuAnn posed this question for Jill to consider:
  • Do you actually disagree with the GC’s suggestions and comments, or are you just annoyed that his say-so is being included in the discussion?
  • The bottom line is to get clear on what your actual reaction is and separate the emotion from it.
  • As it turns out, Jill thought that the GC was leading her client into mistakes, some much worse than others. Additionally, Jill would be the one responsible at the end of the day.
  • When Jill presented her reasoning, her reasoning was poo-poo’d and the client sided with the GC.
  • The next question that LuAnn asked Jill:
  • Does the client’s mother know the GC and does she have an opinion of him, and is this something that she needs to know about?
  • Jill confirmed that the mother does know the GC and does not care for him. 
  • Here’s the third question that LuAnn asked Jill:
  • Yes or no, honestly: with everything set up as it is now with the same dynamics in place, do you see this project as being successful if you take the job?
  • Jill did NOT see this project going well.
  • LuAnn’s final question for Jill:
  • Pretend everything is exactly the same and the project is $2,600 instead of $26,000: would you give a second thought to just walking away?
  • Jill’s response was no, with the exception of the relationship with the client’s mother.
  • The most important thing to consider, given all the details, is the relationship with the original client. 
  • The second most important thing is Jill will only proceed with the job if this particular GC is not involved.
  • Know what you will do, and what you will not do.
  • What would Lu do, based on this information?
  • Listen in to find out the surprising outcome!

Links / Resources:

LuAnn’s Website

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Is Chairman of the Board Right for YOUR Business? 

www.luannnigara.com/cob

 

Are you a #babydesigner, #risingdesigner, or a #seasoneddesigner?

Take the “What Level is Your Design Firm” Quiz and Find Out!

Get a list of things to do that day, by the end of the week and by the end of the month, in addition to the best podcast episodes to listen to appropriate to where you are in your business journey!

A Big THANK YOU to These Podcast Sponsors:

Open Your Trade Account with ARTICLE.com Here!

Be the hero for your clients, and be the solution they need right now with Article.

Jaipur Living’s Website - Easy to Browse, Custom Calculator, Products Ready to Ship! Open Your Trade Account to Begin Your Relationship with This Admirable Company.

Previous Episodes:

#222 

#526

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