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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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A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast
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Now displaying: April, 2021
Apr 30, 2021

Today with Michael Schneider

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Michael Schneider founded BDNY and now he’s in the business of connecting interior designers and suppliers in a whole new way with Next Virtual Meetings. Using the speed dating concept, Michael offers designers an easy way to source new products and build vendor relationships right from your living room.

Pick it apart:

[8:03] Michael review what happens at the Next Virtual Meetings 30-minute session

 

[15:34] Michael shares the process an interior designer uses to sign up for his service

 

[19:40] LuAnn asks Michael why he pays designers to attend meetings

 

[24:13] Michael share about his “land cruise” speed dating type event for designers and suppliers

 

[31:57] Michael reviews how suppliers can participate in his event

 

[35:00] LuAnn reviews Michael’s opportunities for designers

LuAnn and Michael Schneider’s Ah-Ha moments:

“You have to be nimble. You have to be willing to pivot and figure out where the opportunities are—because they’re there.” - Michael Schneider

More About Michael Schneider:

Michael Schneider, Founder and CEO of NEXT Events is a hospitality industry connector and business leader. Michael founded the Boutique Design brand in 2005, which now encompasses a magazine, face-to-face events, and the highest regarded hospitality interior design trade show in the world (BDNY). Recently, Boutique Design was acquired for a second time by a publicly-traded company for $45M. As a serial entrepreneur, Michael has spent the last 15 years leveraging relationships and developing innovative ways for his clients to market their business. Now, Michael is looking forward to reinventing and transforming the hospitality interior design industry all over again. Michael enjoys fitness, flying planes, and hanging out in his upstate home with his wife, three sons, and rescue dog.

Connect with Michael Schneider:

https://nexteventsusa.com/

https://nextvirtualmeetings.com/

https://hospitalitycares.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldschneider5

https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-virtual-meetings?trk=public_profile_topcard_current_company

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kravet:

The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for “Design Discussions with Barry Lantz.” on May 4th at [10:00] AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, “Canvas to Cloth.”

Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!

 

Apr 27, 2021

Today with Andrea Hysmith:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Goal-setting isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we write a list of goals and never take any steps to get there. Other times, we become so obsessed with the goals that we develop tunnel vision and fail to see when we need to adapt. All too often, unexpected situations derail our goals entirely.  My guest today, Andrea Hysmith, has found the balance between flexibility and structure that allows her to pivot when the unexpected happens, maintaining a commitment to strong client experiences and to her business values. Today, she’s sharing her insights on how to do that, no matter what comes your way.

Pick it apart:

  • [5:50] Andrea shares her part-organic, part-structured process to goal-setting.
  • [11:10] Andrea breaks down the steps she takes to bring in a steady stream of referrals and network-based clients.
  • [16:12] Andrea discusses her unique process to building relationships with her clients.
  • [36:25] Andrea shares the journey she took to open her brick-and-mortar studio, the first black-owned business in her neighborhood.
  • [45:00] LuAnn and Andrea dive into the experience and challenges of being a Black business owner.

LuAnn and Andrea Hysmith’s Ah-Ha moments:

“For me, at least, when I have this structure in place, even if I have to adjust it, it gives me a guide.” -Andrea Hysmith

 

“Always tell people what you do and ask for what you want.” -Andrea Hysmith

 

“It’s walking that line and really figuring out the people whose values align with yours and making sure that they’re a culture fit from one human to another.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“We keep the goal, but we throw away some of the things we thought were attached to the goal and open our mind to what other way we can get to the goal.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Andrea Hysmith:

Andrea Hysmith, CAPS; Associate ASID Andrea Harvey; Founder of ASH Interiors and Design is an Interiors Specialist, Kitchen and Bath Designer, Manufacturer Representative, Speaker and Presenter that has been sharing her knowledge of luxury design and products in the design industry for over twenty years. Her industry experience includes kitchen, bath, and interior design…focusing on residential and light commercial spaces. Her background as a manufacturer’s representative of luxury kitchen and bath products has increased her knowledge of products, skills in training and business development. Her relationships with the A&D Community have made her a well-recognized resource in the Washington Metro Market. Andrea recently opened her design studio and office space in Historic Ellicott City becoming the first woman of color to open a brick-and-mortar design space in this area. In this studio space, she works with design clients as well as B2B partners educating them on the luxury products the firm represents. Andrea is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), The Hospitality Industry Network (NEWH) & Black Interior Design Network (BID). As well as an advisory board member of the Historic Ellicott City Board. Andrea loves connecting to her clients and peers…she is said to be relatable, knowledgeable, informative, and always fun. She believes that design is truly a lifestyle!

Connect with Andrea Hysmith:

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet:

The Seattle Design Center Spring Design Week is kicking off from May 3rd-7th. Join me and Kravet for "Design Discussions with Barry Lantz." on May 4th at 10:00 AM PST. I will be hosting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Barry Lantz of Lantz Collective’s debut collection, "Canvas to Cloth."

Join Barry and me as he shares how his newest collection came to life. Visit the link in our show notes, or at the link in our Instagram bio to register!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#282 Blanche Garcia – You Teach Clients How to Treat You

#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry

 

Apr 23, 2021

Today with Terri Taylor:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. Terri Taylor of Interior Design Business Academy is back on the show to share her design business expertise and help you step into your space, confidently manage your projects, and pick up all the opportunities for profit. She’s also reviewing her truly golden Letter of Agreement that will change the way you approach your remodeling projects.

  • To learn more about Terri's new class and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

Pick it apart:

[22:37] Terri shares the problem with a quickly-created letter of agreement.

 

[24:41] Terri explains how designers can determine an accurate design fee.

 

[26:37] LuAnn and Terri explore what to do when a contractor’s budget is too low.

 

[31:00] Terri reviews a scenario where the designer is in charge from the beginning of the project.

 

[41:36] LuAnn recaps Terri’s method of owning a job from the beginning.

 

[42:42] Terri explains what her three-day class, The Real Deal, covers.

LuAnn and Terri Taylor's Ah-Ha moments:

“Designers are the heart and soul of the projects.” - Terri Taylor

 

“You need to think of your fee as insurance to the client that the money is going to be spent is spent well and adds value at the end.” - Terri Taylor

 

“You don’t have to finish the project to get paid - you have to finish the design to get paid.” - Terri Taylor

More About Terri Taylor:

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.

Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality, and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000.  Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015.

In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education, and coaching.

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

Connect with Terri Taylor:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Website

  • To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Terri Taylor's upcoming class: The Real Deal - Designer Remodeling Jobs for Profit

  • You’ll be in class for a highly interactive three full days 
  • May 19th, 20th, and 21st, 2021
  • It will be a mix of all the things: 
    • worksheets 
    • templates
    • scripts 
    • copies of letters of agreement
    • Q&A time
    • community, sharing, mindset work, and breakout groups
    • And some dance!
  • Early bird pricing is $797 until Tuesday, April 27th
  • It goes to $1297 after that
  • To learn more and get your ticket, go to https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/

 

So what do you say? Want to stop giving away your time and learn how to set up a job so you’re paid properly?

 

Is Q2 the time to allow yourself to step into your space and bloom as a designer?

 

I think it is. Decide to be excellent.

Other Shows Mentioned:

  • episode 548

  • episode 602

Apr 20, 2021
 

Today with Lucy Harris:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by New York City designer Lucy Harris. Lucy shares her top five “musts” for new interior design firms. This nine-year high-end design firm veteran has learned a thing or two about the non-negotiables when starting out on your own. Learn what Lucy did to get to where she is today!

Pick it apart:

[13:25] Lucy explains the need for community, the first of five musts when starting an interior design firm

[17:57] Lucy shares her take on the importance of photography and photo styling

[27:41] Lucy talks about how she approached outsourcing

[36:14] Lucy and LuAnn share why creating an online presence is vital

[48:35] Lucy shares the three reasons to consider taking a project

LuAnn and Lucy Harris’ Ah-Ha moments:

"People want to believe that you’re an amazing interior designer. And all it takes is one or two good enough projects to give people that confidence." - Lucy Harris

"Starting a business is about making baby steps." - Lucy Harris

More About Lucy Harris:

Growing up in a modernist house in Concord, Massachusetts, Lucy Harris was surrounded by, and given an appreciation for thoughtful design. From her great-great grandparent’s eclectic art- and antiques-filled Federal townhouse in Beacon Hill (now the Nichols House Museum) to her great-grandparents’ Arts and Crafts summer home in Ipswich, Massachusetts to the Mid-Century house where she currently lives in Westchester’s Usonia, Lucy has always surrounded herself with thoughtful, beautiful, timeless design.

Building on that heritage, Lucy continues to be influenced by many different movements in art and design, from the Bauhaus to Minimalism. Eclecticism is at the root of her designs, and her work is reminiscent of the “impossible bouquets” of Dutch Master painters, in which flowers that would not normally grow together exist side-by-side in the name of art. An avid traveler who has lived in Rome and Milan, Lucy visits Europe often for inspiration, and sources furniture, rugs, lighting and materials from all over the world. She also works with skilled craftspeople from Los Angeles to Brooklyn to realize her custom designs.

Connect with Lucy Harris:

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

I am honored to be on the Window coverings Association of America (WCAA) national board and I cannot tell you enough about my colleagues in this organization. We have chapters all over the US. Both Vita and I are members and I encourage you to do the same. For designers, it’s where you can meet the trusted trades to help you offer the best window treatments to your clients, and for us window treatment pros, it’s where you can stay on top of resources and education to make sure you are delivering your A-game. Go to wcaa.org

 

The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021, and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference

 

 

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

  • Stephen Karlisch #369
  • Charlotte Safavi - #623
  • Mike Van Tassell- #563
  • Raquel Langworthy- #343
  • David Livingston- #51
  • Sarah Winchester - #444
  • Jessica Delaney- #630

 

 

Apr 19, 2021
 

Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard." 

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the "Interior Design Standard".

I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the "Interior Design Standard", with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business.

Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

Here’s what you need to know:

The Interior Design Standard is composed of modules that outline Sandra’s entire business. Within each module are resources that you can start using right away.  She walks you through how to implement all of these templates via videos along the way.

Program highlights include:

Design fee calculator - confidently calculate flat design fees in moments

Design agreement, that both clients and designers love

The exact process that each interior design project follows, from the first potential client contact to pitching the photos to press

 

Important dates for your calendar:

April 21st - Registration opens! 

April 28th - Enrollment closes at midnight

May 3rd - Program begins

 

Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses:

“A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide!  The Interior Design Standard is incredible.  I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!

- Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors 

 

"The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.” 

- Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors 

 

It’s your turn, enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann

 

Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together.

Apr 16, 2021
 
 

Today with Michelle Butt

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. By now, we all know that sales isn’t about convincing someone to buy what they don’t need or want. You care about your clients and their happiness. You want to make a sale that gives you the profits you want and provides your clients with something that will bring them happiness. Today, I’m talking with Michelle Butt, Master Coach and creator of Facial Intelligence, to talk about how using visual cues and facial features can help you relate to your clients in a stronger way, making the sales process even more of a win/win.

Pick it apart:

  • [1:37] Michelle defines what facial intelligence is and why a conscious understanding of faces is helpful for business owners.
  • [13:50] Michelle gives us insight into the 5 Facial Archetypes and how to use them to relate to sales targets.
  • [20:00] LuAnn and Michelle discuss the importance of understanding yourself before you can truly understand others. 
  • [32:09] Michelle provides a key takeaway that can help you start applying Facial Intelligence right away. 
  • [51:37] Michelle shares more ways you can use facial understanding to strengthen relationships with potential clients.

LuAnn and Michelle Butt’s Ah-Ha moments:

“We all do unconsciously read faces, and most of the time we read faces for expressions because there are universal expressions that we can mirror and match and understand. And we do unconsciously to some degree read features to understand what they mean, but most of us don’t consciously do that.” -Michelle Butt

 

“We tend to think, ‘Oh well if I like this, then all I have to do is tell people all the reasons why I like it, and then they’ll like it too and they’ll want to buy it,’ but really people want to be treated the way they want to be treated.” -Michelle Butt

 

“Sales is a win/win. Sales isn’t about convincing you to have something you don’t want or need. Sales is my responsibility to figure out what’s the best and most wonderful thing that will complete whatever it is you’re trying to do. So every tool that we can utilize in order to illuminate what it is that you want, need, and drives you, and will help you become more successful in connecting with that sales target or potential client—I love it.” -LuAnn Nigara

More About Michelle Butt:

Michelle Butt holds an Honours BA in Linguistics from The University of Toronto, is a Master Coach and a Facial Intelligence Expert.

After more than 10 years of studying human communication and creating the Facial Intelligence™ body of work, Michelle has come to know a thing or two about how and what drives people to believe in someone else enough to buy from them.

She’s built an understanding of how coaches, consultants and mentors need to show up to that crucial sales call in order to get that “yes” and truly begin the process of changing someone else’s life (and their own in the process).

By creating and implementing the F.A.S.T Method (Facial Acuity Sales Tactics), she has helped herself and many other coaches and consultants to use the face of others as the blueprint and catalyst for gaining a client and increasing their business’s success and revenue.

Michelle has been featured at TedXToronto, Reinvention Radio and OMTimes Magazine.

All her research and results have shown that the face is the starting place of any transformational journey and leveraging the information you see in a face is the key to changing the results you are getting in your sales process.

Connect with Michelle Butt:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn  

YouTube

FAST Guide download link: www.michellebutt.com/fastguide

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Kirsch: Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrate with third-party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more! 

 

Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Visit kravet.com today to explore it for yourself. 

 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

Apr 13, 2021

Today with Genevieve Trousdale:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. This week, I’m joined by Genevieve Trousdale. After coming from working in two large firms, Genevieve launched her own firm. She grew her business to serve luxury clients and tackle high-income projects. But unlike most other designers on her level, Genevieve chooses to keep some things simple, running her business on her own and taking on just a few projects per year. Today, we’re talking about how she manages it, why she chooses it, and the importance of staying true to your values in your business.

Pick it apart:

[7:18] Genevieve talks about the experience of working under great influences and what she learned along the way.

[11:58] Genevieve shares why she chooses not to expand her firm and bring on other designers. 

[20:44] Genevieve reveals what she looks for in others when she does need to outsource work.

[25:03] LuAnn and Genevieve talk about the expectations in the design world and how to stick true to who you are.

[33:51] Genevieve explains how she created a resource for other designers to get questions answered and form a community.

LuAnn and Genevieve Trousdale’s Ah-Ha moments:

 “This is amazing to me...it’s unusual that you’ve reached that level of design client but you’ve maintained the solo firm and you’re making money.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“The pretty part, I can take care of. I like to take care of that. So I’m looking for someone with street smarts.” -Genevieve Trousdale

 

“There are pressures of ‘Why aren’t you scaling your company and searching for the next best thing.’ I am—but I’m doing it my own way.” -Genevieve Trousdale

More About Genevieve Trousdale:

Steeped in Southern tradition and influenced by sophisticated French style, Genevieve’s finely-honed design sense was originally fostered by two generations of discerning familial role models with exquisite taste. On assignment designing homes, chalets, and estates throughout Europe, the Middle East, and America, Genevieve developed inspired and inventive ideas for each client’s passions and desire for the very best.

 

Highly regarded for sophisticated design, meticulous attention to detail, creative sourcing of one-of-a-kind pieces, and the ability to manage thousands of special details at once – Genevieve has earned the respect and admiration of the most thoughtful and discriminating clients, worldwide.

 

Ms. Trousdale, a Louisiana-born designer, boasts a stunning repertoire of world-class projects from American ski chalets, a Parisian flat to a luxurious Middle Eastern palace. Working alongside top AD 100 industry icons, Genevieve is one of the nation’s most accomplished designers.

Connect with Genevieve Trousdale:

Circaphiles Website 

Website

Circaphiles Instagram 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch: your leaders in drapery hardware. Kirsch recently unveiled their new Briza Motorization, allowing your clients to control their draperies in an instant from anywhere. It’s simple to install, quiet, and easily integrates with third party systems. It’s even available on most of their most popular rods. Visit kirsch.com today to learn more! 

Mydoma:

The free industry-leading event for designers is back! This April 13th and 14th, get ready for the return of 19 Hours, a virtual design conference by Mydoma and A Well Designed Business.

We all know by now that the world has changed, and while 2020 was very much about insulating yourself, and your business from what comes next, this year, it's time to learn the lessons that the industry has learned the hard way this past year, and set yourself up for success. It's time to make 2021 your year, with a number of panels, presentations, and talks from some amazing industry partners and experts.

So what are you waiting for? It's a free event, so you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! Register for 19 Hours at mydomastudio.com/19hours. I'll see you there!

 

Other Shows Mentioned:

#433 Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection with Kravet

#91 Sarah Daniele – Co-Founder & CEO of Mydoma Studio

Apr 9, 2021

Today with Dolores Hirschmann

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®. When someone asks you what you do, how clear are you? Are you able to communicate what you do, the value you bring to the table, who you help, and what sets you apart? Or do you struggle to define what message you’re trying to put out with your business? The truth is that so many of us have trouble getting clear on our message, our differentiators, and our business. But until you gain that clarity, you’re going to hit roadblock after roadblock. Today, I chat with Dolores Hirschmann, a strategist and coach who helps her clients get that clarity in their message so they can start impacting the world.

Pick it apart:

  • [2:16] Dolores and LuAnn share why it’s so important to get clear about our message and how we communicate it. 
  • [6:08] Dolores unpacks the way our belief systems impact our clarity.
  • [22:28] Dolores breaks down her “9 Layers of Clarity” and how she uses the framework to help her clients.
  • [41:28] LuAnn and Dolores dive into the process of tapping into your unique differentiator.
  •  

LuAnn and Dolores Hirschmann's Ah-Ha moments:

“If people can’t ‘get’ what we do, if people cannot understand how we’re going to help them, it’s almost impossible for them to hire us.” -Dolores Hirschmann

 

“It is a rare time when you talk to someone and you say to them, ‘what do you do?’ and you get a straight-line answer. So often we talk in a circle.” -LuAnn Nigara

 

“What gets in the way of clarity is not more knowledge or sexy words—it’s our emotional state of being and our belief system.” -Dolores Hirschmann

 

“That’s the purpose of the proprietary system. Each of the designers listening to this podcast is unique in the way they approach the project. Each of them is unique in the way they interact with the client, in the way they go about the whole process. So there’s value in understanding your uniqueness because that’s your secret recipe.” -Dolores Hirschmann

More About Dolores Hirschmann:

Dolores is an internationally recognized STRATEGIST & COACH and has been a remote employee and virtual business owner for over 20 years. She helps clients clarify their “idea worth sharing”, design their communication strategies, and implement business growth systems. Her clients become speakers and authors and take their message to larger audiences like TEDx and beyond. She works through group coaching, workshops, one-on-one coaching, as well as public speaking. Dolores is a writer, TEDx Organizer, and CTI certified and ICF accredited coach with a business degree from the Universidad de San Andres, Argentina. Originally from Buenos Aires, Dolores speaks fluent Spanish, English, and French and lives in Dartmouth, MA with her husband and four children.

Connect with Dolores Hirschmann:

Website 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Twitter 

LinkedIn 

Free gift: The TED Way to Raise Visibility & Get More Clients eBook https://www.we.mastersinclarity.com/standout-podcast

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma Studio: Mark your Calendars! You’re invited to the 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference. Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you'll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we'll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now - We’ll see you at the conference! 



Kravet: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. That's why they refreshed their website to help your experience be even simpler. With the new redesign, you can quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. The product has also been enhanced to offer more tailored results to get you what you're looking for quicker. Designers can now also search more specifically by color with Kravet's new advanced color search, which allows you to create the exact custom color you are looking for and get filtered search results that best match your selection. Visit Kravet.com today to see it for yourself!

Other Shows Mentioned: 

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

#317 Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

#125 Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

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

 

Apr 6, 2021
 

Today with April Jensen

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. April Jensen of St. Louis-based ADJ Interiors was in business for 25 years before she created an onboarding doc for her high-end interior design business. April and LuAnn walk step-by-step through her onboarding doc as April lets us in on how it has helped her handle client expectations and sticky situations.

Pick it apart:

[16:13] April shares her response to a client who is unsure of their budget

 

[22:44] Why mutual respect with clients is necessary for a successful project 

 

[27:40] April advises how to respond to a client who is worried about a single product

 

[36:33] April and LuAnn share their mutual frustration with clients who text

 

[42:55] LuAnn and April chat about how to handle clients who don’t pay

LuAnn and April Jensen’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I’m a designer, and it’s okay to be a business person too.” - April Jensen

 

“You asked for a burger and a coke. If you want fries, it’s more money.” - LuAnn Nigara

 

“You have to put the whole picture together before you judge.” - April Jensen

 

More About April Jensen:

Prior to founding ADJ Interiors in 1994, April Jensen worked for interior design firms in Chicago and St. Louis. She works equally as hard to create seamless and enjoyable design experiences for her clients as she does to foster a fun, collaborative, and creative work culture. April received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design and a certificate of Art History from Michigan State University. She is a Professional Member of ASID and is NCIDQ Certified, having completed specialized courses, necessary experience, and a rigorous examination. Under April’s leadership, ADJ Interiors has been featured in several publications and has received a plethora of design awards. For more, please visit www.adjinteriors.com

April Jensen of ADJ Interiors was originally scheduled for an interview on September 15th of last year but had to reschedule to the 24th of February due to Covid.

Connect with April Jensen:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference!

Apr 2, 2021

Today with Theresa Gresham

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Single mom to a toddler and suddenly laid off when Covid started, Theresa Gresham moved into a 200ft studio to save on rent. Theresa shares her journey of building a Virtual Design Assistant business from scratch and learning the importance of self-care and hiring help.

Pick it apart:

  • [14:30] Theresa shares her story about starting her business after getting laid off due to Covid.

  • [19:32] Theresa tells LuAnn how a parenting coach helped her flip her mindset about self-care.

  • [23:20] Theresa shares how things changed when she limited her office hours

  • [27:41] Theresa shares about motherhood during Covid and the importance of asking for help

  • [35:43] Theresa tells Luann about how she started her e-design business

  • [41:30] Theresa gives an overview of the services she offers interior designers

LuAnn and Theresa Gresham’s Ah-Ha moments:

 

“Everything wonderful in life is scary at first.” — Theresa Gresham

 

“You just keep going - and that little face smiling back at you is all the why you need.” — Theresa Gresham

More About Theresa Gresham:

Meet Theresa Gresham, a toddler mommy, a business owner, a virtual design assistant, and an educator, in that order. A truly well-rounded design professional, Theresa has worn many hats in the interior design industry. Her favorite aspect of the design world, however, is creating stunning presentation content, such as 3D renderings, and teaching her skills to other interior designers. Born and raised in sunny South Florida, her passion for interior design began at a young age when her mother gave her free rein to design her room. She loved using her creativity to up-cycle furniture and paint murals on her walls. Creativity runs deep through Theresa’s soul and she is living the dream by letting her creative juices flow in her career. Prior to opening her own virtual design business in 2020, Theresa attended California State University, Northridge, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design in 2009. She then went on to work for various firms that specialized in everything from luxury yachts and aircraft to high-end homes and restaurants. Theresa’s formal interior design training and varied experience in the field allows her to work seamlessly on a virtual level with interior designers across the country. Theresa’s passion is helping interior designers de-stress and enhance their business with stunning presentation content. She not only creates design visuals, such as CAD drawings, 3D renderings, and concept boards, for her interior design clients across the US, but she also offers 1:1 virtual training to interior designers who want to bring their own presentation skills to the next level. In Addition, Theresa teaches Digital Design to interior design students at Istituto Marangoni in the Miami Design District. When Theresa is not behind the computer immersed in a 3D rendering or in the classroom, you will likely find her dancing in the living room with her beautiful daughter, Leilani, or sipping on an iced latte while soaking up some warm South Florida sun.

Connect with Theresa Gresham:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

7 Perks of Hiring a VDA with Formal Interior Design Training: https://theresagdesign.com/gift/

Virtual Design Mentor: https://www.virtualdesignmentor.com/online-learning

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara:

luannuniversity.com

http://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

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

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

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

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

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

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

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

IDS:

The IDS annual conference is coming up, May 6th, 2021 and I will be keynoting for this. So, please join us, all kinds of sessions and the chance to meet new colleagues and be introduced to a fantastic organization. Go to interiordesignsociety.org/conference

Mydoma’s 2nd annual 19 Hours Interior Design Conference is almost here! Join us for 2 days, with 10 presentations on April 13-14th19

Register now, and you’ll also be signed up to receive the recordings once the event finishes, as well as a digital workbook we’ll send a few days ahead of the event!

RSVP now – We’ll see you at the conference!

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