Today With Mikel Welch:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297!
On today's show, Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel.
More About Mikel Welch:
As a young boy growing up in Southfield, Michigan, Mikel Welch busied himself with the construction of sofas and dining tables using toy Legos for imaginary houses. It was evident to his family that an innate sense of creativity and a passion for design were embedded in Mikel from birth.
Today Welch runs a New York based interior design business, Mikel Welch Designs, and works as a host and design expert on Quibi's Murder House Flip. On camera, Mikel shows viewers tips and tricks for renovating homes, designing sophisticated spaces and creating luxury looks at affordable prices. Mikel is a former on-air personality of TLC’s Trading Spaces, and his designs have been featured on HGTV, The Real Housewives Of Atlanta and Good Morning America.
In January 2020, House Beautiful named Mikel as one of the 2020 NEXT WAVE designers. His work has also been featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Elle Decor, People, The New York Times and several other shelter magazines. Mikel has also had the honor of designing lavish VIP green rooms for prominent personalities, including First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, Harry Connick Jr., Joan Rivers and Halle Berry.
Connect with Mikel Welch
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
Today With Christie Fleming:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design.
If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and interior design, I would have thought you were telling a joke. But for Christie, her experience as an OT led to her perfect niche, the one that let her leave her old career and strike out as the go-to designer for Aging in Place design.
Pick It Apart
[1:56] Christie shares how she went from occupational therapist to interior design.
[6:52] LuAnn and Christie discuss the value in working for another firm at the beginning of your career.
[14:03] Christie talks about how she stumbled onto her goldmine niche.
[17:45] Christie discusses Aging in Place Design and what it entails.
[35:58] Christie shares how she markets such a specific niche.
LuAnn Nigara and Christie Fleming's Ah-Ha Moments
“I’m a huge proponent of working for another firm. Some of the most successful designers I have interviewed stayed with other firms for 5 or 6 years. There’s a difference there when you work for another firm, even for just one year. You’re seeing more than you would have on your own.” -LuAnn
“I didn’t know how much OT and interior design truly overlap until I really got into the business aspect of it. I just knew that my area was so saturated and I wanted to figure out how to make myself stand out from other designers.” -Christie
“I get this question all the time. People will say, ‘I don’t know how to figure otu what my Fred Berns only or my transferable skill or my pot of gold.’ One of the big things is just to get quiet with yourself and to just really keep insisting on going through a mental inventory of all the things that make you you.” -LuAnn
More About Christie Fleming:
Christie Fleming is the Owner and Principal Designer of Lennon Nora Interior Design based out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Lennon Nora Interior Design is a full-service residential interior design firm with a focus on primary residences and vacation homes serving Philadelphia, PA, the Jersey Shore and all surrounding areas. Christie is a valued Allied Member of American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), Designer Society of America and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders. She has a unique healthcare background where she practiced as an Occupational Therapist for many years and has now created a successful interior design business where her clinical expertise has created a new avenue for potential design projects.
Connect with Christie Fleming
How to get your CAPS designation
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing
#174: Power Talk Friday- Fred Berns- Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours
#06: Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward
Today With Nate Berkus:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433!
In today’s show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate’s travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate’s approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah.
More About Nate Berkus:
Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world through his design work, home collections, books, television shows, and media appearances. Ever since Berkus’ first appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2002, he has become one of the world’s most recognizable interior designers. His work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, VOGUE, InStyle, O Magazine and People. He is included on the ELLE DÉCOR “A-List” of the world’s top designers and was named to the AD100 list in 2018.
Connect with Nate Berkus
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
Today With Anne Gillyard:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Anne Gillyard, co-owner of grOH! Playrooms, a luxury educational design firm. Anne had humongous growth in her business after doing some self-reflection and making an investment in her business. After listening to A Well Designed Business, she learned about Rachael Bozsik and Darla Powell and decided to work with them. She shares what she has learned and how much her business has grown in just one year of making moves.
Pick It Apart
[18:04] The time Anne had her business before meeting Rachael.
[28:50] Anne’s journey working with Darla and Wingnut Social.
[40:10] Anne explains her role of reflection and how it plays a role in her success.
[43:55] Anne talks about what factors of an autopsy of a project that she reviews in order to achieve her goals.
LuAnn Nigara and Anne Gillyard's Ah-Ha Moments
“What Rachael helped me do was identify the messaging that resonates with my clients.” - Anne Gillyard
“When I identify the next thing that’s going to help me help my team and my brand grow, I seek an expert.” - Anne Gillyard
“Plan where you want to go. In order to know where you want to go, you have to figure out where you have been and what has and has not worked.” -LuAnn Nigara
More About Anne Gillyard:
Before becoming an innovative playroom designer, Anne earned a master’s degree in early childhood development and curriculum. She spent a decade teaching and training other educational professionals across the country, focusing on STEM learning, problem-based learning, Montessori-style classroom environments, social emotional skills, and 21st century learning. She also developed a national curriculum for play-based learning that continues to be taught in 45 states. During this time, she identified a disconnect between how children play at home and the critical thinking skills needed for success in school and as members of society. She saw the answer was in transforming the home play environment. Fueled by her passion for play and learning, Anne co-founded grOH! Playrooms in 2018.
Connect with Anne Gillyard
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#203: Darla Powell: How to Launch an Interior Design Firm
#301: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening
#630: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game
#651: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design
#759: Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing
Today with Terri Taylor:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy.
Terri Taylor is back to keep inspiring every single one of us! Today we talk about how did the Interior Design Business Academy start, and tells us about the IDBA Coaching & Education programs!
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.
Connect with Terri Taylor
Interior Design Business Podcast with Terri Taylor
Other Shows Mentioned:
#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth
#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/
Today With Claire Ownby:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design, makes running a large, successful firm look easy. But it only appears that way because she has worked so hard to create flawless systems and processes that keep everything running smoothly. She’s sharing how she does it, and how she stays true to herself in her business in the process.
Pick It Apart
[1:07] Claire shares how she has worked to perfect her systems.
[7:05] Claire gives insight into how she manages to produce high-quality work for so many projects within time and budget constraints.
[15:11] Claire and LuAnn discuss having tough conversations with team members.
[25:08] Claire breaks down the success of her firm.
[33:02] Claire discusses what’s next on the horizon.
LuAnn Nigara and Claire Ownby's Ah-Ha Moments
“Making sure that your team’s culture embodies appreciation of everybody else’s work is important, and that’s not something that just happens. It has to be talked about in every team meeting. It has to be demonstrated, not just by myself, but by my senior team members as well.” -Claire
“That’s the thing—when we have hard conversations, regardless of how hard it is, if we’ve done it with respect and care and all the things, even if in the moment there isn’t agreement, when it actually is the right thing to do, eventually there’s acknowledgement that comes back.” -LuAnn
More About Claire Ownby:
Ownby Design is an industry leading luxury interior design firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Our mission is to always deliver a flawless product that is a true reflection of the client’s vision. We strive to transform everyday living spaces into one-of-a-kind indulgences, with a unique fusion of minimalism and lavishness. Our commitment to detail and budget-saving efficiency makes us one of the most sought after firms in the Valley.
Our team has been recognized with numerous industry and community awards for residential designs. We continually deliver beautiful and functional spaces that go beyond our client’s needs and expectations.
Connect with Claire Ownby
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching
#766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement
#658: Genevieve Trousdale: Genevieve Trousdale: Running Your Interior Design Business On Your Own Terms
#580 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders
#560 Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book
#542 Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process
#615 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process
#649 Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective
Today With Bart Anestin:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Bart Anestin, owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast.
Marketing can be challenging with all of the other “hats” we have to wear as interior designers. Bart is here to help us with stress free strategies for design agencies, big and small, that will allow you to focus on your clients projects and not struggle with balancing working for your business while working ON your business.
Pick It Apart
[5:01] Bart shares the similarities that different designers/brands share across the board that he helps them with.
[14:00] Bart explains how clarity in your goals and vision helps your marketing.
[21:40] Bart explains how a digital roadmap can help when we get flustered on what and how many platforms we should be doing.
[29:40] How being clear on what you offer leads to confidence.
[39:33] Bart talks about his podcast The More Life.
LuAnn Nigara and Bart Anestin's Ah-Ha Moments
“Most businesses, big or small, don’t have a solid marketing strategy.” - Bart Anestin
“One of the values of our company is that we don’t talk about clients, we talk about people because we are helping someone. If we refer to them just as an “invoice” then it isn’t a genuine interaction. Look at it from how your business can help their business.” - Bart Anestin
“When you're confident in your messaging and your process, that's when you can implement a lot of different things because your marketing assets are there supporting everything else.” - Bart Anestin
“The branding and marketing world has been democratized because of social media.” - Bart Anestin
More About Bart Anestin:
Bart Anestin is the owner and Creative Strategist of Creative Partner, a Toronto based studio and host of The More Life Podcast. He’s passionate about helping brands tell their story in today’s connected world. Form, function, and awesome clients are the perfect recipe for design, brand alignment, and strategic digital marketing. Bart’s creative approach finds solutions that are mindful, intentional and beautifully crafted. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him at home chasing after his two kids and rewatching episodes of Seinfeld for the umpteenth time. #serenitynow
Connect with Bart Anestin
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#174: Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours.
#746: Power Talk Friday: Daniela Furtado: How to Get SEO Traffic to Your Portfolio
Today With Tanya Smith-Shiflett:
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Tanya Smith-Shiflett of Unique Kitchen & Bath Designs. Tanya has grown her design firm exponentially over five years, expanding to multiple showrooms, engaging in luxury collaborations, and working with high-end designers. Find out how she built her business and what’s next on the horizon for her.
Pick It Apart
[1:45] Tanya shares the story of how she transitioned from medical sales to kitchen and bath design
[7:12] Tanya discusses her expansion and her showrooms
[18:10] Tanya breaks down how she forged high-end collaborations with well-known luxury designers
[34:00] Tanya and LuAnn discuss Tanya’s collaboration process
[39:53] Tanya shares her “best practices” for working with other designers
LuAnn Nigara and Tanya Smith-Shiflett's Ah-Ha Moments
“The biggest thing about your pace is that you have to do you, just like in everything else. There’s a big movement in self-care, and I’m all for it. But at 60 years old, you’re not going to tell me I don’t know me.” -LuAnn
“That’s the thing with people that go for what they want. There’s a whole aspect of having courage and confidence and faith in yourself. But it has to be because you know you can actually deliver.” -LuAnn
More About Tanya Smith-Shiflett:
Tanya has always believed that the kitchen is, in fact, the heart of the home. She has always been passionate about balancing function and beauty in the rooms we use most. While working full-time in medical sales, she began helping her husband’s building company part-time with kitchen layouts. Her innate ability to create beautiful and functional kitchens promoted her to become a NKBA certified kitchen designer and founder of Unique Kitchens & Baths. Since 2005, Tanya has been in the kitchen design community, expanding her skills and honing her expertise. Today, she works closely with her in-house team of designers at UKB to create timeless spaces.
Connect with Tanya Smith-Shiflett
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#455 Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business
#270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle
#236 Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!!
#758 Sallie Lord: Collaboration over Competition in the Interior Design Community
Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “The Design Paradigm”:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. For today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Cheryl has been coaching other designers to success since 2017. Now, she’s launching a program called The Design Paradigm to give business owners everywhere a strong, solid framework for a thriving business. Today, she’s sharing how to lay the foundation for your business to grow, succeed, and thrive.
Pick It Apart
[2:38] Cheryl discusses the places she sees most designers struggling today.
[13:20] Cheryl and LuAnn discuss why having an established process matters so much.
[16:58] Cheryl talks about the importance of weaving marketing into every phase of your business.
[20:22] Cheryl shares how defining your product opens the doors for your business.
[36:22] Cheryl breaks down the details of the Design Paradigm and how it can help your business.
LuAnn Nigara and Cheryl Clendenon's Ah-Ha Moments
“I think that sometimes in the excitement of these new programs or new approaches, we forget that we need to sell the creative vision and not the independent parts and pieces that make up the creative vision.” -Cheryl
“There’s a crisis in confidence in how to charge and how to determine fees—that’s a direct result of not understanding your product and the benefits you bring to the project.” -LuAnn
More About Cheryl Clendenon:
Cheryl is casual and funny about many things but serious about business and marketing.
22 years of full-time, non-stop running a successful business -with a team for 21 of those 22 years. Prior to that, she was the sales and marketing manager for 2 Gannett-owned radio stations where she learned at the feet of some of the best sales trainers in the country.
She was promoted to be the youngest manager in the company at the time and the youngest to be awarded salesperson of the year.
She will tell you sales, marketing, and running a small business are as much of a passion for her as design.
A well-known writer in the industry for several years and honored to be the 2021 Person of the Year from KBB Magazine. Her firm employs 9 people, has a retail boutique showroom, e-commerce, Candle Studio, and has been coaching since 2017.
Her approach is from a creative stance always- and is unapologetic about often saying what others think.
Her ideas and insights in running a business and then-- promoting it-- work for those who commit to leading, want to put the work in, are not afraid to go against conventions, and are passionate about growth in some way or another.
Liz brings a different dynamic to the party by being the VP of Everything at the firm and an accomplished designer in her own right. She and Cheryl are the yin and yang of the company.
Connect with Cheryl Clendenon
Other Shows Mentioned:
Today With Kaitlyn Wolfe:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we have on Kaitlyn Wolfe, founder, general contractor, and principal designer at Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based design-build firm that Kaitlyn has grown from the ground up.
Kaitlyn gives us a peek behind the curtain, speaking to what the past few years have been like for her business—one that started as a solo side hustle and has quickly grown to an award-winning firm with more than 15 employees. She shares how she strategized on the fly, but also how she has thoughtfully grown her team with intention and implemented organizational systems along the way.
Pick It Apart
[4:30] Kaitlyn shares how she fell in love with construction by working with interior designers, architects, and general contractors, all of which gave her well-rounded knowledge of the industry.
[12:51] Kaitlyn admits that things could have backfired but remained confident in herself.
[25:20] Kaitlyn shares how diversity within the team adds to each project.
[31:30] Kaitlyn explains what she has learned from growing her team.
[38:05] Kaitlyn discusses what open communication with her team looks like.
LuAnn Nigara and Kaitlyn Wolfe's Ah-Ha Moments
“…having more of the construction knowledge is super important. I think it helps you collaborate with builders more. I think it just helps you be a better designer.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe
“The reason we're changing so fast, or changing things all the time is because we're growing.” – Kaitlyn Wolfe
“I feel like I work for my team…Where can they grow? How can I provide opportunities for them? What are their goals and how can I help them get there within this company?” – Kaitlyn Wolfe
More About Kaitlyn Wolfe:
From an early age, I knew interior design was something that I absolutely loved and resonated with. In addition, my father was an electrical engineer so I was always helping with any home improvement project I could get my hands on. I was born in a small town outside of Dallas, Texas where I lived until I was 8 years old. My family picked up and moved us to London, England, where I lived until I was 11. Looking back, I think having exposure to European architecture at such a young age and traveling all over Europe, really shaped me. When we left London, we moved to a suburb of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I ended up staying in Pennsylvania until I decided to move to Arizona to pursue my Masters in Business Administration. I gained experience working for an interior designer and an architect, as well as a general contractor. I felt that my skills were really well-rounded and it was time to create something of my own. In 2016, I started Iconic Design+Build (although I started as KaityMac Interiors and re-branded in 2018). I worked on my own for the first few years and gained an assistant in 2019. I now have a team of 16 of us and I've really focused on cultivating the best team, the best work culture, and attracting the clients that we really feel aligned with. I pursued interior design and construction because I often noticed there was a lack of communication between the design and the build-on projects I had worked on. Getting my contractor's license allows us to execute the construction for our clients looking for a remodel or TI buildout and it allows us to communicate better with builders and architects that we partner with for custom home designs. We are a full-service luxury interior design firm as well as a general contractor, with projects ranging from residential to commercial. We design everything from residential remodels and new construction custom homes to boutique retail and hospitality spaces. We specialize in mixing styles such as Scandinavian, vintage, brutalist, industrial, minimalist, and mid-century modern spaces, all with an organic desert feeling. I want to inspire others to follow their passion and to design with intention. I pursued interior design when all odds were against me, but I knew that this was my purpose in life. When it comes to intention, I want people to see there was a reason for every single design detail and element we include in a space. We always focused on functionality for our client's, at the same time pushing them out of their comfort zones creatively. In my free time, I absolutely love vintage shopping, traveling, and visiting National Parks!
Connect with Kaitlyn Wolfe
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet
#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team
#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling From 2 Million to 5 Million
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today With Fernando Duque:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s episode is sponsored by Duke Renders. They are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico, and specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.
Fernando Duque is here today to talk about how they have built Duke Renders in 2 years to over 100 employees and more than 500 interior design accounts. Make sure to grab your pen and paper!
LuAnn Nigara and Fernando Duque's Ah-Ha Moments
"We were very clear that we needed to get in place a good management team in order to get where we wanted to go." - Fernando Duque.
"I think it was Tony Robbins who said that books are 10 or more years of an author's life compressed for 9.10 bucks." - Fernando Duque.
"I've mentioned Tony Robbins before, I'm a big Tony fan, and I love when he says that the secret of living is giving, I really like that phrase." - Fernando Duque.
"We are on a mission, we have a very clear mission of making this industry a better industry." - Fernando Duque.
More About Fernando Duque:
Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.
I cofounded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.
We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico. We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.
We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.
We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.
I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.
Fun Facts:
Connect with Fernando Duque
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
Other Resources Mentioned:
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Thank you to Duke Renders for sponsoring this show!
Today With Layton Campbell:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Layton Campbell of JLayton Interiors on the show. Layton wasn’t always an owner of a successful design firm. He originally started out on Broadway in NYC and performed on cruise ships as a dancer and singer. He always had a passion for stage sets and the interiors of places which grew his desire to do interior design, an interest he already had. Ultimately, he moved back to his native Charlotte, NC and launched his own firm. While scary as it was, there were a lot of lessons Layton learned along the way, and shares with us today.
Pick It Apart
[7:30] Layton and LuAnn discuss how having prior experience in a career, like working for another design firm, will give you transferable skills.
[10:25] Layton goes into best practices of when he worked for another firm.
[22:40] How Layton approached going out onto his own.
[27:00] Layton talks about his How to Guide For Starting a Design Business From the Ground Up.
[34:07] How Layton approached marketing for his design firm.
LuAnn Nigara and Layton Campbell's Ah-Ha Moments
“Branching out on my own was terrifying because I was comfortable and you're putting yourself in uncharted territories, but you have to believe in yourself, your background, and the things you have learned and know that they will serve you.” - Layton Campbell
“When you think of marketing, think about the layering of it in various forms. That’s where it’s beneficial.” - Layton Campbell
More About Layton Campbell:
Layton Campbell is a true native Charlottean and proud of it. Many are surprised to learn that he earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and then moved to live in New York City for a little over a decade. While there, he studied his other passion: Interior Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design.
His design studies beckoned Layton to travel extensively around the world in search of diverse craft and traditions. His professional design aesthetic has been demonstrably shaped by surrounding himself with the rich culture and styles of Russia, Asia, Australia, Europe and The Middle East.
After moving back to Charlotte and working as an Associate Designer, Layton launched JLayton Interiors in 2004. During this time, he also acted as lead buyer, designer and store manager for a popular Charlotte-based luxury gift, decor and furnishing retail boutique called Bella Casa from 2005 to 2011.
Layton's biggest sense of accomplishment is that he can work within a broad variety of design styles. Thus, his work does not have a routine standard appearance. Each project is an individually inspired expression of originality. His creative philosophy centers on juxtaposing a collection of varying styles for a genuine personalized result for each client. The only thing routine about his approach is that he wants to listen to his client’s needs and desires so that he can match and surpass their expectations.
Connect with Layton Campbell
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#12: How to Get Your Interior Design Projects Published With Ren Miller
#108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry: How to Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm
#134: Paula Grace: How Do I Build Trust With My Clients?
#167: Kelsey Grose – Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017
#203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm
#291: Cheryl Luckett: From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design
#323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships
#330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening
#433: Nate Berkus: Introducing His Collection With Kravet
#455: Megan Molten: Planning Creates Success in Your Interior Design Business
#601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game
#677: Megan Molten: To Succeed, Focus on Your Why
#739: Marianna Zimmerman: It’s Never Too Late to Design Your Life
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today on A-Well Designed Business:
Today LuAnn recaps her experience at High Point Market this fall and her top takeaways from the Power Talk Friday Tour 2022.
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today With Alex Alonso:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined with Alex Alonso of mr. alex TATE Design. Alex was recently on Bravo TV's hit design competition series, "Best Room Wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. What also is impressive is Alex’s knowledge that he is here to share. On multiple occasions he just knocked it out of the park for me in terms of when to turn down a client. Alex shares his ABCD approach that took him and his team months to formulate and now serves them, to be able to have their ideal clients and provide the best client experience.
Pick It Apart
[14:06] Do all of the ABCD’s of Alex’s ideal client have to check the “yes” box?
[26:39] How Alex responds when a client comes back after they were declined.
[29:58] The instances that Alex moves forward with a client if they don’t know or don’t share their budget.
LuAnn Nigara and Alex Alonso's Ah-Ha Moments
“The more honest you can be with yourself about what you can deliver, the better the client experience will be because you’ll have the confidence to speak with the client and say yes, this is or isn’t possible.” - Alex Alonso
“It’s really important as a firm to stand behind your word as a collective team.” - Alex Alonso
“There is a justification and rationalization when it comes to budget that a consumer can sink their teeth into.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Alex Alonso:
The studio team collective is lead by design principal Alex Alonso. A maximalist at heart, after years in media and entertainment on both coasts and travels abroad he launched a studio that embraces a global perspective and celebrates the power of storytelling through spaces. Reflecting a distinct design approach that is all about the mix, the result is a bold sensibility he calls “modern victorian.”
Cuban-born Alex grew up under insanely humid Miami days. After attending Northwestern University and working in advertising in Chicago, Alex moved to Los Angeles where we worked in entertainment for many years. All along he perfected his craft in his true passion, design. His travels have taken him across five continents and function as a constant source of inspiration for his designs.
A voracious collector, Alex is drawn to anything with a story.
Alex was recently on bravo tv's hit design competition series, "best room wins" where his "transitional" room design earned him a coveted spread in elledecor.com. His room was judged by design maven and host, Genevieve Gorder, elle decor editor-in-chief, Whitney Robinson and design icon, Jonathan Adler.
Connect with Alex Alonso
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#548: Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets
#482: Cheryl Clendenon: Small Business, Think Big
#384: Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets
Today With Ebony Looney:
Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and today we are having a conversation about your website. Constructing, revamping, or anything you have to do with your business website can be pretty intimidating.
Ebony Looney, web designer, creative director, and owner of Make Me Over Eb is here to tell us how to optimize our website in search, common website mistakes, what to hire out for, what we must include, and more that will give you more confidence and clarity in building your website.
Pick It Apart
[6:00] Ebony gives advice on how to share your portfolio or show your work on your website.
[17:00] Mistakes people tend to make in constructing their website.
[20:30] How important is blogging for your business?
[34:15] How to attract tradesmen through your website.
LuAnn Nigara and Ebony Looney's Ah-Ha Moments
“The more I understand about your process before I have conversation with you, the better I can decide and believe if this will work for me.” - LuAnn Nigara
“Every business needs to blog.” - Ebony Looney
“People are looking you up and want to know if you know what you are doing and what makes you stand out.” - Ebony Looney
More About Ebony Looney:
Ebony is a Web Designer and Creative Director with 22+ years of experience making the web beautiful for B2B service providers. She has worked with agency owners, private sector and educational institutions such as Carbra Construction & Design, Benedict College & South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. With a background in web design, development, fashion design and online marketing she believes that beautiful design is good business. She is happy to cover any website marketing related topic you think your audience would be most interested in.
Connect with Ebony Looney
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning a Website That Make Things Happen
#574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy
#64: Stephanie Hamilton: Reputation Marketing for Window Treatment Professionals
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today With Tanna Edler:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Tanna Edler, owner of TANNA BY DESIGN we learn the seven strategies she implemented to cut her work time in half, but doubling her income. This wasn’t always the case for Tanna. She worked eight years in business before she came to a realization that things had to change. She was overworking herself and doing the backend duties the “long way.” After attending Mydoma Studio’s 19 Hours, she was inspired to live by her new motto to “live easy.”
Pick It Apart
[2:17] Tanna shares the catalyst to her come to Jesus moment after 8 years as an interior designer.
[11:35] Tanna talks about the first strategy she used to improve her business.
[13.41] Tanna shares how she personally utilizes Mydoma’s Studio Management Tool.
[22:05] Tanna explains Mydoma’s Signature Discovery Call
[29:32] The fifth strategy of Marketing Team Outsourcing
[40:48] Tanna’s Education strategy and how Lu University was a huge contributor.
[47:50] How Tanna’s seven strategies have resulted in more time and more money.
LuAnn Nigara and Tanna Edler's Ah-Ha Moments
“Going into this, I thought that the design aspect was going to be the challenge. I thought I was going in with all of the business knowledge, but it was the complete opposite.” - Tanna Edler
“When you’re investing in a website redesign, you do need to know what your message is. What would be the point of the pretty if you're not talking to your ideal client from who you are.” - LuAnn Nigara
“You’re the epitome of understanding that no matter how good you are doing something there’s one little aha moment that unlocks a new level of awareness and strategy.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Tanna Edler:
Hello, I'm Tanna Edler, founder of TANNA BY DESIGN. I own a Full Service Interior Design firm, based near Yakima, Washington with projects nationwide. Specializing in residential and commercial, new construction and remodeling projects.
My philosophy is ‘live easy’. My superpower is creating a space that just feels right, matching the lifestyle goals of my clients. I do this by listening and problem solving. My gift is using the results of this discovery to transform their home or office, enabling my clients to live their best life.
Born in Montana, my namesake, and growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I have always had an affinity for nature. From a young age I was intrigued by simplicity and natural shapes. You will notice my designs are emphasized by ample windows, an open floor plan and the idea of bringing the outdoors in.
After graduating from Washington State University and spending over a decade in corporate human resources as a trainer and coach, working with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon, my creativity pulled me to pursue interior design full time in 2011. I brought along a skill set of client management and procedure solutions which assist me in operating my business and offering a seamless onboarding process for my new clients.
Today, I am the only interior designer in Yakima, Washington as well as Washington State to have been awarded IDS Designer of the Year, eight years and the first in the Pacific Northwest to have received the coveted IDS Impact Award for my charitable interior design contributions in my community.
Collaborating with the interior design industry elevates my craft and has enabled me to gain vendor relations, allowing for endless interior products at my fingertips. I also care about the future of our industry and have enjoyed serving on the Board as a Director for the Interior Design Society. Recently, I have added Business Coaching to my offerings, mentoring other Interior Designers as they strive for the same success.
While my passion is design, I also love to create through writing. For the last ten years I have enjoyed contributing as an interior design writer for NorthSound Life Magazine and their affiliates.
White glove service, everything in its place, no worries, no hassle is what I stand for and runs through my virtual design team members and trusted list of architects, contractors, and trades partners I work with.
Connect with Tanna Edler
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today With Kate Saunders:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today, Kate Saunders, is a designer with more than 18 years of experience. Over time, she realized that she has strength, talent, and even passion for the backend of the business. She has taken her experience and her strength to form The Designer’s Collab—a company that handles the backend for design firms of all sizes. Today, she’s sharing what she has learned about efficiency, file management, and streamlining your interior design business.
Pick It Apart
[1:38] Kate shares the journey that led her to form The Designer’s Collab
[8:49] Kate and LuAnn discuss systems that streamline businesses
[14:43] LuAnn shares a frustrating roadblock in her business that needs a system improvement
[26:49] LuAnn and Kate talk about the importance of creating a book of standards
[35:51] Kate highlights her new brand, The Designer’s Collab
LuAnn Nigara and Kate Saunders' Ah-Ha Moments
“It’s really important to set up procedures and standards in the beginning. It takes a lot of time, but it’s so important, especially if you’re trying to grow your business. It helps to keep your entire team in line and understanding what your vision is for your business.” -Kate
“It’s the difference between knowing in your head what you do and having it on paper or digitally. It enables all the things—it allows you to scale, to train, to go on vacation, but it also helps you in crisis too. We’re not getting out of this world without crisis touching us in some way, shape, or form.” -LuAnn
More About Kate Saunders:
Kate started in the interior design industry in 2004 and received her BA in Fine Arts from the Design Institute of San Diego. After a few years as a designer, she went on to receive her master’s in architecture degree from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design.
Kate has spent the past 18+ years in every facet of the interior design industry; from Construction Management and Architecture, running her own design firm, helping to lead the interior design program for RH, designing side-by-side with acclaimed San Diego and Orange County interior designers, to managing wholesale Trade Programs across the US and Canada. She’s done it all. Now with her to-the-trade outsourcing service, she has created an opportunity for designers throughout the country to utilize services typically restricted to larger firms.
Whether it be outsourcing your drafting, project management, presentation, and content files, or assisting with installations - The Designer's Collab can assist in any virtual or in-person service capacity giving the sole designer, or design firm a true 3rd party support system to build their business and enhance their client's experience with every tool available.
Connect with Kate Saunders
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.
Today With Elsie St. Leger:
Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, I’m joined by Elsie St. Leger, president of IIDA New York, and founding member of the New York chapter’s Equity Council.
The Equity Council was formed to address racial inequality within the design industry and educate those who are interested in doing the work and having the real conversations about equality. Elsie shares what you can do as an individual and business owner to take accountability and make a change.
Pick It Apart
[19:50] Elsie shares how the Equity Council was formed and what their mission is.
[22:40] Elsie and LuAnn discuss the four pillars of the Equity Council.
[31:30] Elsie discusses the importance of workshops and education about diversity issues.
[51:38] Elsie and LuAnn talk about why diversity is so important in the design industry specifically.
[58:30] Elsie shares what designer can do to promote equity in the industry.
LuAnn Nigara and Elsie St. Leger's Ah-Ha Moments
“Diversity has become, unfortunately, a sort of broad-stroke term that almost doesn’t mean anything. We wanted to set these pillars—so people could have a foundation from which to start those conversations.” -Elsie
“The Equality Council is not about casting judgment. It’s not about pointing fingers. It’s not about revenge or telling you what to do. It’s about assessing where we are, setting the bar, and moving forward.” -Elsie
More About Elsie St. Leger:
Elsie St. Léger entered the industry while earning her BFA at the New York School of Interior Design, beginning in the residential sector before moving to healthcare. Now an assistant project manager at NYU Langone Health, St. Léger believes in giving back to the industry and began volunteering with IIDA NY. Now, president of IIDA NY, she has played a vital role in the chapter’s push toward accountability and equity as a founding member of the chapter’s Equity Council.
As a trusted leader in New York’s interior design industry, St. Léger understands the value of building community during turbulent times. Her motto is momentum and progress, and her role as president has involved building on IIDA NY’s foundation while continuing on a positive trajectory. Despite the inability to conduct in-person programming, working remotely and reprioritizing has allowed St. Léger to foster the sense of remote community within the organization that has become important in the pandemic era.
Her previous leadership roles for IIDA NY include that of Residential Forum Co-Chair and Healthcare Forum Co-Chair, and she was part of the leadership of LMNOP (Leadership Mentoring & Networking Opportunities for A&D Professionals), which is now integrated into IIDA NY.
Connect with Elsie St. Leger
Equity Council: JEDI Resources
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year—just $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! Visit mydomastudio.com/summer to get started.
Today With Vita Vygovska:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 5 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer.
More About Vita Vygovska:
Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short!), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, and the LuAnn University instructor for Systems Driven Operations.
Connect with Vita Vygovska
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#748: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup
#761: Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: How to Ballpark the Numbers on the Fly
#793: Window Treatment Friday: How To Breakdown Pricing for Your Customers
Today With Michelle Lynne:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I am joined by Michelle Lynn, president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and founder of Designed for the Creative Mind where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency.
I get a lot of requests to talk about what constitutes billable hours. I think you’ll enjoy the answer to all of the tasks you should be charging your clients, but also we shift into the importance of standing by what we charge, knowing we’re worth what we charge, and yet again, educating our clients.
Pick It Apart
[6:40] The conversation starts about what constitutes billable hours.
[20:20] If Michelle HAD to pick three tasks that may not be considered billable.
[21:30] The controversial subject of charging less hourly when using your junior designer.
[38:00] LuAnn emphasizes the internal work that needs to be done to be confident in what you charge.
[44:00] How having a solid process result in respect from your clients.
LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Lynne's Ah-Ha Moments
“You need to be raising your standards and continue to push until you start hearing some “nos'' because that is when you’ve hit your sweet spot in weeding out the clients who will drag you down.” - Michelle Lynne
“Professionals hire professionals.” - Michelle Lynne
“We make a home feel like a hug. How do you put a price on that?” - Michelle Lynne
“You can listen to hours upon hours of podcasts about knowing your value, but if you don’t do the internal work and come from your CEO role and stand your ground on the service you provide and what it’s worth, you will always struggle with what you are charging.” - LuAnn Nigara
“When you start to conduct your business in an organized fashion, your clients become people who appreciate that, don’t question you, and have trust in you.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Michelle Lynne:
Michelle Lynne is the president of ML Interiors Group, a successful design firm based in Dallas, and the founder of Designed for the Creative Mind, where she teaches interior designers and decorators the proven practices, effective processes, and profitable systems to run their businesses with purpose and efficiency. A few years into running her interior design firm, Michelle found herself disillusioned from overworking and underbilling. She took control of her firm, putting systems and parameters in place that soon led to a thriving, seven-figure interior design business.
Connect with Michelle Lynne
Designed for the Creative Mind
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
Get The Goodies!
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:
Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action
Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts
Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2
Connect with LuAnn Nigara
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#429: Alinda Morris: A Successful Design Business Depends on a Firm Foundation
#463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity
#797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense
Other Resources Mentioned:
Today with Terri Taylor:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy.
Terri knows how to create successful design businesses—and this time she is here to teach us all about design fees VS hourly billing!
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.
Connect with Terri Taylor
Other Shows Mentioned:
#763: Power Talk Friday: Terri Taylor: The Real Deal and Charging Your Worth
#602: Terri Taylor: Interior Design Business Academy 2020 Summit
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Today's show is sponsored by Terri Taylor and The Interior Design Business Academy. Check out all the details on https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/
Today With Susan & Paul Kadilak:
Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business. We’ve all heard about how valuable video can be for our business. But the idea of starting with video holds a lot of us back. How do we overcome our own insecurities? How do we get started? What do we even put in our videos?
Today, Susan & Paul Kadilak of Kadilak homes help answer that question. They’re taking us through their journey of video for their business and how you can start with video—even if video makes you nervous!
Pick It Apart
[2:46] Paul and Susan share how they got started with video and how they overcame the discomfort and nerves in the process.
[19:18] Paul and Susan discuss why they chose to bring someone in-house to handle their video needs
[22:57] Paul and Susan talk about how to get started with video—without needing to create scripts or ideas.
[28:45] Paul, Susan, and LuAnn discuss how video help build relationships with clients.
[36:55] Paul and Susan talk about building video into your contracts.
[50:00] Paul and Susan discuss their upcoming TV show and app.
LuAnn Nigara and Susan & Paul Kadilak's Ah-Ha Moments
“It gets your authenticity out there. When you’re just yourself, there’s people that are going to like you and there are people that are not going to like you and that’s okay. It attracts our ideal avatar in a way, because people come to us that want to work with us.” -Paul
“We all know we’re going to get better. If you’re trying to find the courage or motivation, just know that today is the worst you’re ever going to be at it.” -LuAnn
“You have to recognize that you care more and you’re paying more attention than anybody else. You’re your own biggest critic.” -Susan
More About Susan & Paul Kadilak:
@KadilakHomes is a design build firm run by Susan & Paul Kadilak in the Greater Boston area. Together they have made it their mission to help their clients turn an ordinary house into a haven that they love coming home to! The Kadilak’s have grown by connecting directly with their audience through their social media channels and are excited to announce that they just launched a brand-new app, “Renovation Rekindle”, featuring their new show with 10 half hour episodes. In each episode you can follow along with the Kadilak’s and their clients on a complete home renovation journey from beginning to end.
Connect with Susan & Paul Kadilak
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
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
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.
Today With Heather Hansen:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today with Heather Hansen, of Heather Hansen Presents we’re talking about how to advocate for yourself in your business. For some, this can be challenging because it begins with believing in yourself. And after 20 years as a trial attorney, Heather has combined her experience, her psychology degree, and her time as a TV anchor to create specific tools to teach anyone to advocate.
Pick It Apart
[4:13] Heather explains to us how she helps people advocate for themselves, their ideas, and business.
[8:00] Heather’s 3 C’s of advocacy.
[19:36] What Heather does with her clients to instill better belief in themselves through the evidence journal.
[40:00] How compassion plays a role in your advocacy.
LuAnn Nigara and Heather Hansen's Ah-Ha Moments
“No one can better advocate for yourself than you can because no one has your experience, passion, and talent.” - Heather Hansen
“If you’re lacking in belief, then it’s really hard to help other people believe.” - Heather Hansen
“See things from your client’s perspective, then use words to resonate with them.” - Heather Hansen
More About Heather Hansen:
Heather Hansen helps leaders, sales teams and high-powered individuals master persuasion and build credibility with diverse stakeholders. She gives leaders the tools to make the case for their ideas, their products, and their leadership. With these tools, they change others' perspectives and help them to believe.
Heather has worked with companies like Google, LVMH, SavATree, the American Medical Association, and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, and has lectured at Harvard Business School, Stanford Law School, Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania. She’s also appeared on The Today Show, CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox Business, and CBS.
Heather is the author of the bestselling book The Elegant Warrior-How to Win Life's Trials Without Losing Yourself, which Publishers Weekly calls "a template to achieving personal and career goals", and the host of The Elegant Warrior podcast, an Apple Top 100 Career podcast. Her most recent book is Advocate To Win-10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It.
Connect with Heather Hansen
Advocate to Win: 10 Tools to Ask for What You Want and Get It
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
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
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#797: Power Talk Friday: Andrea Liebross: What You Are Worth, in Dollars and Sense.
Window Treatments for Profit: #70: Elizabeth Gerdes: Sometimes a Pivot is the Best Thing for Your Window Treatment Business Happiness
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
We only have so many hours in the day. So, how do you maximize your time and invest in your business without maxing out your expenses? Well, our friends at Mydoma have you covered. They’re having the biggest sale of the season, so if you want to spend less time managing and more time designing, plus get access to a powerful rendering tool, mood boards, easy product curation, and more, then I think you know what to do.
Head over to mydomastudio.com/summer to get Mydoma’s most popular plan for 50% off until the end of the year. That’s only $39.50 per month to get access to a full suite of project management tools, plus the simple and user-friendly rendering tool. Make an investment in yourself and your business and take advantage of this limited-time offer! That’s mydomastudio.com/summer.
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn lists all the different services and products she offers through the LuAnn Nigara Inc platform for you to enjoy!
What’s new with LuAnn Nigara
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
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
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Today With Michelle Rohrer-Lauer:
Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you been noticing brands in all industries going more “green?” Are you wondering how you can contribute as a designer?
Today I am chatting with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer a.k.a “The Green Queen”, owner of Michelle Interiors. Michelle will answer all of your questions on how you can learn about sustainability (clue: her 50 Shades of Green events) and how to sprinkle in eco-friendly design to your clients. Make sure to tune in because sustainability is a growing concept and you don’t want to miss out.
Pick It Apart
[1:45] Michelle explains how sustainability is a growing consumer mandate.
[6:27] Michelle gives advice on how to sprinkle in information to clients.
[23:20] Michelle talks to us about her 50 Shades of Green approach and events.
[31:51] Michelle explains how a designer can learn more about sustainability.
LuAnn Nigara and Michelle Rohrer-Lauer's Ah-Ha Moments
“You don’t have to be 100% green. You can be 10% green and you’ll still make a difference in your home.” - Michelle Rohrer-Lauer
“I already know that you’re going to make the room pretty, but when you’ve added extra value to it and taught me something that’s something I am going to include in my conversations.” - LuAnn Nigara
More About Michelle Rohrer-Lauer:
Award-winning interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, a.k.a. “The Green Queen,” launched Michelle’s Interiors more than 25 years ago as a part-time, home-based business. Since then, the studio has grown into a bustling, well-respected, firm operating full-time in suburban Chicago.
Michelle’s mission has always been to help her clients live the luxurious lifestyle they imagined, in the broadest sense. Yes, that means top-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. But above all, Michelle wants her clients to enjoy the same mindset at home that they experience on vacation: relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.
To that philosophy, Michelle adds a passion for sensible, eco-friendly design choices. She calls her approach “50 Shades of Green” because she believes that her clients don’t have to be 100 percent sustainable at home. They can choose any shade of green that fits their lifestyle, because even small changes can produce healthier indoor living and a healthier planet.
As a certified GREENleader and member of the national Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), Michelle wants to help improve indoor air quality, protect natural resources, reduce the world’s carbon footprint and rebel against our throw-away society. She calls it a life insurance policy for the future. To further this goal, Michelle has developed a series of events called “50 Shades of Green,” partnering with local builders, landscapers, architects and specialty trades to educate the public about her approach to eco-friendly design.
Among her accolades:
Connect with Michelle Rohrer-Lauer
Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point
Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration
http://www.luannnigara.com/cob
For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.
To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!
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
LuAnn’s Website
LuAnn’s Blog
Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast
Other Shows Mentioned:
#569: Power Talk Friday: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health and Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition
#626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design.
#670: Power Talk Friday: Susan Inglis: Sustainable Furnishings Council, What You Need to Know
#718: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: The Power of Dramatic Demonstration in Your Business Videos
#724: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Using Video to Close More Interior Design Deals
#773: Power Talk Friday: The Company Store: Quality, Sustainability, and Innovation
#800: Richelle Plett: How to Sell Upholstery Without a Sit Test
A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor:
Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. products are in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in-stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet’s exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at http://www.kravet.com.