Top Questions Budding Interior Designers Ask, Answered

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Design school can be demanding and thorough, but it often misses out on the nitty-gritty of running a business in the real world. If you’re just starting out as an interior designer, it’s only natural to have a ton of questions. And let’s be real—even if you’ve been in the industry for years, there are moments when you wonder how other designers are handling things or if you’re keeping up with the latest practices. So whether you’re just beginning or have been in the industry for years, these questions are for you!

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1. How do I set my pricing and fees?

Setting your pricing can feel like walking a tightrope. You don’t want to scare potential clients away with high fees, but you also don’t want to undersell yourself. The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—many designers use a combination of pricing models to keep things flexible and fair. For example, you could start with a flat rate base fee for a clearly defined scope of work and then switch to an hourly rate for any additional services or changes beyond the initial agreement. When deciding on your rates, consider factors like your location, experience level, target client, and the complexity of the project. High-end clients in major cities might expect a different pricing structure than a young couple in a small town. It’s all about aligning your value with your market.

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2. What is a typical workflow for a design project from start to finish?

A smooth workflow is the backbone of any successful design project. Here’s a typical flow that you can customize as needed:

• Initial Consultation: Meet with the client to understand their needs, preferences, and budget. This is your chance to build rapport and set expectations.

• Design Concept Phase: Develop the big-picture vision for the space. This might include mood boards, color palettes, and inspiration images. This phase helps you and your client get on the same page about the direction of the design.

• Design Development Phase: Now, it’s time to dive into the details! This phase involves creating detailed floor plans, choosing materials, and selecting furniture. You might also develop 3D renderings or conceptual drawings to help clients visualize the space.

• Procurement: With the design approved, it’s time to order materials, furniture, and decor. Coordinate with suppliers, manage timelines, and keep an eye on the budget.

• Installation: This is where the magic happens! Coordinate with contractors and oversee the installation to ensure everything aligns with the vision.

• Project Wrap-Up: After installation, do a final walk-through with the client, address any last-minute tweaks, and make sure they are thrilled with the result. This is also a great time to request testimonials and take professional photos for your portfolio!

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3. What social media platforms are most beneficial for interior designers?

Choosing the right social media platform can elevate your business and connect you with potential clients. Here’s a breakdown:

Instagram: A must for interior designers! It’s perfect for showcasing your portfolio with high-quality images, behind-the-scenes stories, and Reels that show your personality and process.

Pinterest: Another visual powerhouse, great for driving traffic to your website and getting your designs in front of people actively searching for inspiration.

Facebook: It can be useful for building a community through groups or promoting your services via local business pages.

Houzz: Fantastic for connecting directly with homeowners looking for professionals and sharing reviews.

LinkedIn: Great for establishing authority, networking with other professionals, and sharing thought leadership content.

YouTube: Perfect if you’re comfortable in front of the camera—share design tips, process videos, or even virtual tours of your projects. 

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4. What are the best project management tools for interior designers?

Staying organized and on top of things is key, and there are some fantastic tools out there to help you do just that. For general project management, Asana, Trello, and ClickUp offer great platforms to organize tasks, timelines, and team collaboration. For more interior design-specific needs, tools like Studio Designer, Design Files, Design Manager, and Houzz Pro (formerly Ivy) offer comprehensive solutions for everything from billing and procurement to client communication and product sourcing. Each has its strengths, so it’s worth exploring them to find the best fit for your workflow. 

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5. How do I build a portfolio with little or no experience?

The classic “chicken and egg” situation—clients want to see a portfolio, but you need clients to build one. Start by designing for friends or family or even staging rooms in your own home. Take on small, low-budget projects or volunteer to do spaces for local businesses or charity events. Make sure to document everything—high-quality photos are fundamental. And don’t forget to share your process, not just the finished product. Mood boards, sketches, and before-and-after shots show clients how you think and execute.

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6. How can I differentiate myself from other designers in a crowded market?

Finding your unique place in the design world starts with a bit of self-reflection. Here’s how to carve out your niche:

1. Identify Your Strengths: Are you great with bold color palettes? An expert at sustainable design? Know your superpower and lean into it.

2. Define Your Ideal Client: Knowing who you want to work with can help you tailor your messaging, portfolio, and marketing efforts.

3. Develop Your Brand Voice: How do you want to be perceived? Fun and quirky? Elegant and sophisticated? Make sure this comes through consistently in all your communications.

4. Show Your Personality: People connect with people, not just pretty pictures. Use your website, social media, and client interactions to let your authentic self shine through. 

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7. What are the best ways to present design concepts to clients?

Presentation matters! Start by setting up templates in Canva or your preferred platform for professional and consistent presentations. Use a mix of samples and swatches, inspiration images, conceptual drawings, and, if the budget allows, 3D renders. Make sure to tailor your presentation style to each client—some might prefer a hands-on approach with physical boards, while others might be more tech-savvy and prefer digital formats.

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8. What should be included in a client contract?

A solid contract is your best friend. It should clearly outline the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, and responsibilities. Include a clause on revisions to prevent endless changes without compensation. Make sure to cover what happens if either party needs to terminate the contract and add a section about the handling of delays, like those caused by supply chain issues. The goal is to protect both parties and set clear expectations from the start. You can read more on this in this post. 

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9. How do I deal with clients who have unrealistic budgets or expectations?

When faced with tricky clients who have big dreams but a small budget, clarity is key. Start with a generic estimated budget calculator to help them understand the costs associated with different levels of finishes and furniture. Then, offer tiered proposals that give them options at various price points. This way, they can see what’s achievable within their budget and understand how upgrading impacts the overall cost, but it leaves the decision in their hands. 

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10. What tasks should I be outsourcing?

Thankfully, just about any task can be outsourced, from bookkeeping to procurement to social media management. Even technical tasks like CAD drawings and renders can be handled by someone else. Here at Elite Design Assistants, we’ve got a team ready to help with all of that. Whether it’s something you’re not strong at, something you don’t enjoy, or something you simply don’t have time for, outsourcing is a smart way to keep your focus on the creative aspects of your business.

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Starting out in interior design can feel like juggling a million things at once, but remember, every experienced designer started where you are. It’s completely normal to wonder how others are managing their processes, and networking can be a fantastic way to gain insights from other industry professionals who are open and willing to share their experiences. But remember, just because others are doing things a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way for you at this moment. Embrace your unique journey, be open to trying new methods, reassess from time to time, and trust that you’re finding the path that works best for you. Good luck—you’ve got this!

xx, Danae

Top 8 Time-Wasters for Interior Designers (Plus Solutions to Help!)

We all know someone who seems to have it all together, making us wonder, “How do you juggle it all?” Meanwhile, many of us are constantly battling with time management, trying to split our days between work, loved ones, home responsibilities, and self-care—while desperately seeking a bit of genuine downtime. Countless memes about this hit so close to home that you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. While I can’t offer the ultimate secret to balancing every aspect of your life, I can help you improve your workday to reclaim significant chunks of time that you can dedicate to whatever you choose. So, here it is the top 8 time-wasters for interior designers!

1. Not Tracking Time

Ever wonder where all your time goes? Without keeping tabs on your hours, it’s tough to stay on track with your project time budgets.

Solution:

Tracking time is a two-fold job. First, set up proper tracking systems that categorize your work by project and task type. Apps like Toggl or Harvest can help you monitor how much time you spend on different tasks. Second, regularly review your time reports to ensure you're sticking to your time budgets. Don’t have a time budget? It’s time to create one!

2. Poorly Defined Scope of Work

Scope creep can be a nightmare, whether it’s because you’re a perfectionist or because cheeky clients keep pushing the boundaries. Unplanned tasks can eat up your time and energy, turning a straightforward project into a never-ending saga.

Solution:

Clearly outline the scope of work in your proposals and contracts. Set boundaries and discuss them with your clients upfront. This way, everyone knows what to expect, and you can keep the project on track. Plus, having everything in writing makes it easier to handle any unexpected changes or requests.

3. Avoiding Project Management Tools

Sticking to outdated methods like Excel (no hate) doubles your workload and causes important details to slip through the cracks. More modern project management tools keep everything organized and easily accessible, freeing you from the chaos of scattered, unsynchronized notes and lists.

Solution:

Switch to project management platforms like Asana, Trello, or industry-specific tools like Studio Designer. These tools help you manage timelines, budgets, and communications all in one place. No more digging through infinite files and folders to find what you’re looking for.

4. Endless Sourcing Time

Finding the perfect items is many designers’ favorite part of the process, but it can also be a massive time drain. Without limits, you can easily spend hours hunting down that one perfect piece, leaving you behind on other important tasks.

Solution:

Set a time limit for sourcing each item and stick to it. Keep a well-organized vendor list that’s easy to search through, and build strong relationships with your suppliers for quick and efficient communication. This way, you can find what you need faster and move on to the next part of your project.

5. Waiting on Client Decisions

Refreshing your inbox, waiting for client feedback, and “just following up” again and again halts your progress and messes up your schedule. Without clear deadlines, you might find yourself stuck in limbo, unable to move forward with your work.

Solution:

Give clients clear deadlines for their feedback from the get-go and make sure they agree to them. Explain how timely decisions are important for keeping the project on track and avoiding unnecessary delays.

6. Ineffective Delegation to Team Members

Not delegating effectively can lead to a pile-up of tasks and slow down your workflow. Whether you’re avoiding outsourcing or not giving clear instructions, it’s a big time-waster that leaves you doing (or not doing) everything yourself.

Solution:

Learn to delegate tasks properly. Give clear and complete information to your team members so they can work independently. This will free up your time for more important tasks and help you focus on the bigger picture. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work!

7. Branding & Marketing Analysis Paralysis

Spending too much time on branding and marketing decisions (the perfect font, the perfect song for your Instagram story) can leave you stuck, wasting time that could be better spent designing. It’s easy to get caught up in all the little details.

Solution:

Hire a pro to create your branding kit and develop social media templates for you. This will simplify your marketing efforts and give you a cohesive and professional brand presence without spending endless hours on it. Let the experts handle it so you can focus on what you do best. 

8. Not Using Templates

Creating documents from scratch each time is a hard no. Having branded templates saves you a ton of time and keeps things consistent. Plus, it means all your materials will look polished and professional.

Solution:

Develop a set of branded templates for all your documents, like client presentations, proposals, and contracts. This speeds up your workflow and has everything looking top-notch. You’ll spend less time formatting and more time focusing on your designs (or whatever you want!).

Can you relate to one or more of these time wasters? The good news is there are solutions, and by taking a moment to reflect on your time management, you might just find yourself with several extra hours each week. You've got this!

xx, Danae

5 Common Mistakes Interior Designer Make and How to Bounce Back From Them

Like any creative profession, the interior design business comes with a learning curve where trip-ups are just part of the journey. The truth is that so many designers have been there, so the important thing is to learn from our missteps, bounce back, and avoid them in the future. If you’ve found yourself stumbling through some of these, don’t worry! Here’s how to rebound from five typical interior design mistakes and set your practice up for smoother sailing.

1. Cutting into Your Earnings to Maximize Client’s Budget

Mistake: It can be tempting to lower your fees or choose cheaper solutions to stretch the client’s budget further, potentially at your own expense.

Bounce Back: You may be able to fairly mark up other lower ticket items at a higher percentage while remaining true to the agreed budget to compensate a bit. And if it’s the client who keeps pushing boundaries, it might be time to sit down and revisit the budget and scope together. If you’ve already taken a hit on a project, chalk it up to experience. Next time, factor in your desired markup right from the start, so you know the real budget you have to work with for client costs–and stick to it!

2. Skimping on Quality

Mistake: Trying to save some pennies by choosing less expensive materials or furniture can end up disappointing your clients — and they might need replacements sooner than expected.

Bounce Back: Take the time to chat with your clients about the value of paying a bit more for quality that lasts and looks fantastic long-term. It’s all about helping them understand that an investment now can save headaches later. Plus, setting a minimum quality standard for your projects will help you always source from reliable suppliers.

3. Not Tracking Your Time

Mistake: If you’re not keeping an eye on how many hours you’re pouring into a project, you might end up undercharging and overworking.

Bounce Back: It’s never too late to start! Begin tracking your time now, even if it’s midway through a project. Begin with the basics, logging hours per project. As you get the hang of it, break your time down by task within each project. This not only helps with accurate billing but also gives you invaluable insights into managing your time more effectively.

4. Having a Short, Vague Contract

Mistake: A contract that’s too brief can leave too much up in the air, leading to miscommunications and project scope creeping out of control.

Bounce Back: If you’re mid-project and things are getting muddled, try clarifying terms now — many clients appreciate the initiative. For future projects, team up with a legal expert to craft a contract that covers all the bases clearly and comprehensively. This will keep both you and your client on the same page from the get-go.

5. Starting and Stopping Too Many Initiatives

Mistake: You’re trying to stay up to date with industry trends. But frequently changing business strategies or marketing efforts can result in wasted resources.

Bounce Back: Take a step back and evaluate what’s worked and what hasn’t. Stick to one or two new strategies at a time and give them a chance to work before you tweak them. Crafting a solid, long-term business strategy and committing to it will help ensure your efforts are cohesive and impactful. Give each new marketing or business initiative enough time to show results.

Remember, each hiccup is a stepping stone to becoming a better designer, and things are only looking up from here. Keep up the fantastic work—you’ve totally got this!

xx, Danae

A Mini Morning Marketing Session for Interior Designers

Let's face it - marketing might not be your forte. It's tough to navigate the promotional world when your passion lies in creating beautiful spaces. Therefore, we wanted to take a little time this morning to share a few insights on easy ways to effectively market your design business and share some great resources and tools tailored specifically to help interior designers like you with marketing. Ready to dive in?

Building Your Portfolio:

Your portfolio is your visual resume and a great tool for attracting clients. Showcase your best work in a professionally curated portfolio that highlights your design aesthetic, creativity, and attention to detail. Invest in high-quality photography to capture your projects in their best light and consider creating a digital portfolio website to showcase your work online.

Helpful Tool: Maximizing Photoshoots for Interior Designers Mini Guide

This comprehensive guide provides insider tips and tricks for maximizing photoshoots and capturing stunning images of your interior design projects. From styling tips to camera settings to downloadable business forms you need when hiring photographers, this guide will help you showcase your work and create a portfolio that stands out from the crowd.

Increasing Social Media Presence:

Social media is a powerful marketing tool for interior designers. Use platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz to share photos of your work, engage with followers, and connect with potential clients. Consistency is key, so aim to post regularly and use relevant hashtags to increase your visibility.

Helpful Tool: The Hashtag Handbook for Interior Designers

This handbook is your ultimate guide to mastering hashtags on social media. Learn how to choose the right hashtags to reach your target audience, increase engagement, and grow your following on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. With these expert tips, you'll be able to elevate your social media presence and attract more clients to your interior design business. This handbook also includes over 300 industry-related hashtags! 

Utilizing Physical Promotional Items:

In addition to digital marketing, don't underestimate the power of physical promotional items to advertise your interior design business. Branded merchandise like tote bags, mugs, and notebooks can serve as stylish and functional marketing tools that help you stay in the front of your client's mind. 

Helpful Resource: Custom Promotional Items

We partner with a promotional item vendor that can find any items you’re wanting to promote your interior design business. Whether you're looking for stylish tote bags to carry your design samples, chic mugs to gift to clients, or elegant notebooks for jotting down design ideas, we can find it! Follow the link below to take our Promotional Product Questionnaire to figure what items best fit your needs.

By investing a little time into your marketing and choosing helpful tools and resources that can streamline the process, you don't have to be an expert in marketing, you can continue pursuing your passion - designing beautiful spaces, you just get to show it off a little more. 

Happy Marketing! 

xx, Danae

Crafting a Million-Dollar Interior Design Brand: A Blueprint for Success

I love working with interior designers and trying to add as much value to them as possible! I hope you find this one helpful!

Creating a million-dollar interior design brand requires more than just an eye for aesthetics. It demands a strategic blend of creativity, business acumen, and a deep understanding of client needs. In this post, we'll unveil a comprehensive blueprint to guide aspiring interior designers on their journey to building a thriving, high-value brand.

1. Define Your Unique Style and Niche:

Successful interior design brands often have a signature style that sets them apart. Identify your design aesthetic, whether it's modern minimalism, classic elegance, or eclectic bohemian. Additionally, carve out a niche within the industry. Specializing in areas like sustainable design, luxury homes, or commercial spaces can distinguish your brand in a competitive market.

2. Build an Impressive Portfolio:

Your portfolio is your visual resume and a showcase of your talent. Curate a diverse collection of projects that highlight your range and expertise. Include high-quality photographs, detailed descriptions, and testimonials from satisfied clients. A compelling portfolio serves as a powerful marketing tool, attracting potential clients and collaborators.

3. Invest in Professional Branding:

Crafting a million-dollar brand requires attention to detail, starting with your visual identity. Invest in professional branding, including a distinctive logo, a cohesive color palette, and a polished website. Your online presence is often the first interaction clients have with your brand, so make it memorable and reflective of your design ethos.

4. Establish a Strong Online Presence:

Leverage the power of digital marketing to reach a broader audience. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz to showcase your work and engage with potential clients. Maintain a consistent posting schedule, interact with followers, and use targeted advertising to amplify your brand's visibility.

5. Network Strategically:

Building a million-dollar brand involves strategic networking. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other designers, architects, and influencers. Collaborations and referrals within the industry can open doors to high-profile projects and clientele.

6. Offer Exceptional Customer Service:

Client satisfaction is paramount in the interior design business. From the initial consultation to project completion, prioritize open communication, transparency, and attentiveness to client needs. A satisfied client not only becomes a repeat customer but also a brand advocate, contributing to your brand's positive reputation.

7. Diversify Revenue Streams:

To build a million-dollar brand, explore various revenue streams beyond traditional design services. Consider offering design consultations, online courses, branded products, or even licensing your designs. Diversifying income sources can contribute to financial stability and growth.

8. Develop Strategic Partnerships:

Forge strategic partnerships with suppliers, contractors, and other professionals in the industry. Establishing strong relationships can lead to better pricing, exclusive access to resources, and collaborative opportunities. These partnerships can enhance the overall value proposition of your brand.

9. Continued Education and Trend Awareness:

Stay at the forefront of design trends and industry advancements by investing in your professional development. Attend workshops, conferences, and design shows to keep your skills sharp and your brand relevant. A brand that evolves with the times is more likely to attract a discerning and forward-thinking clientele.

Building a million-dollar interior design brand is a journey that combines artistic flair with business savvy. By defining your style, investing in branding, embracing digital marketing, and prioritizing client satisfaction, you can create a brand that not only stands out in a crowded market but also commands the attention and loyalty of high-value clients. Remember, success in the world of interior design is not just about creating beautiful spaces but about crafting an unforgettable brand experience.

xx, Danae

Top 20 Interior Design Trade Sources

Are you looking to elevate your interior design game and gain access to exclusive products and resources? Joining trade programs can open doors to a world of advantages that extend far beyond what's available to the average retail customer. Among these advantages, the most enticing feature is the potential for significant discounts, a substantial part of designers' profits. But the perks don't end there—trade members often enjoy expedited customer service, sales tax exemptions, exclusive product previews, and in many cases, custom design options and expedited shipping services.

Managing the Mark-Up

As a designer, there are various approaches to managing product mark-up with your clients. Some designers choose to sell items to their clients at the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and keep the difference as a commission. Others opt to share the discount with their clients, adding value to the collaboration while maintaining profitability. And often, designers do some of each!

The Application Process

To streamline the process of opening trade accounts, it's a good idea to set up a readily accessible folder containing all the necessary documents and information typically requested for trade account applications. This makes the application process for you or your assistant much more efficient each time. Some of the most common asks may include:

• Business License or Official Proof of Business

• Resale License

• Business Bank Account

• Company Website URL or Social Media Page

• Professional Design Membership (AI, IDI, ASID)

Terms & Conditions

When considering a trade account, be sure to find out about key terms and conditions such as:

• Opening order amount

• Annual minimum purchase requirement

• Pricing tiers

• Best customer service avenue

• Return and damage policies and procedures

Now, let's dive into an up-to-date list of the top interior design trade sources!

1. 1stdibs: This well-known platform features an array of both vintage and contemporary furniture and decor and claims to have “captured the magic of the Paris flea market” and offers discounts of up to 30% along with personalized support.

2. Chairish: Another leading marketplace of home furnishings and art, registered trade members earn Trade Rewards for all purchases on Chairish. Discounts vary depending on the sellers' discretion.

3. Four Hands: A wholesale furniture and art dealer known for its extensive and stunning selection, they offer trade pricing that improves the more you spend.

4. Wayfair Professional: Famed for its vast selection and various styles, professional members enjoy up to 15% discounts, plus an extra 10% off Wayfair's specialty brands, along with fast and free shipping.

5. Williams-Sonoma: Use one trade account to receive a 20% discount on items from all its stores, including West Elm, Pottery Barn, and Rejuvenation, with a 25% discount from Williams Sonoma Home.

6. Crate & Barrel: Another chic and reputable big box brand, Crate & Barrel and its sister brand CB2 offer members a 20% discount and concierge customer service.

7. Artemest: This sophisticated Italian resource has a dedicated trade team, a range of designer discounts, and bespoke design solutions.

8. Lulu & Georgia: Members enjoy a 20% discount on all orders, exclusive previews of new collections and collaborations, and dedicated sales and support teams on this LA-based platform.

9. Design Within Reach: This multi-brand furniture and decor store offers trade pricing and promotions, COM/COL options, and their Concierge Service to assist with sourcing, orders, and delivery.

10. Article: Their team provides sourcing assistance, flat-rate deliveries, and resources like tear sheets and 3D models. You can order tax-exempt and receive discounts ranging from 5-15%, depending on your purchase.

11. Serena & Lily: Sign up for complimentary swatches, flat-rate delivery, customization options, and a 25% trade discount, plus extended return windows and a dedicated support team.

12. RH: They offer a 25% discount on all full-price merchandise and 20% off all sale items, customization options, and comprehensive design support, including 2D CAD floor plans and elevations, moodboard and material packages, and full-scale presentations.

13. Interior Define: Find customizable furniture options, up to a 20% trade discount (sometimes more), free shipping, complimentary swatches, social media exposure, an extended return window, and a trade concierge team.

14. EQ3: This Canadian furniture and home goods company offers assistance from their dedicated Customer Care Team, free swatches, 2D digital product files, COM options, and trade discounts.

15. Arhaus: At this classic and contemporary haven, you can earn tiered commissions (starting at 7%) on a quarterly basis, get featured in their publications, and enjoy custom options.

16. Minted: This popular destination for art and home accessories offers trade members 20-30% off fine art, complimentary art proposals, plus free and quick shipping.

17. Flor: A reliable source for rugs and carpet tiles, Flor's trade program provides discounts of 20% and up, free samples, quick shipping, and rug design support.

18. Visual Comfort: Enjoy a 20% trade discount on their extensive selection of beautiful lighting pieces.

19. Arteriors: Expect trade-only pricing on their eclectic furniture and accessory selection, 72-hour lead times, marketing support, and design event invitations.

20. Rove Concepts: This modern and mid-century furniture source offers trade members discounts starting at 35%, swatch boxes, brand exposure, and valuable design resources, such as Augmented Reality tools.

Other Mentions:

More and more, interior designers are turning to sourcing platforms designed precisely to streamline your sourcing process and boost your earnings. Check out:

• StyleRow

• SideDoor

• DesignerInc

Happy sourcing! 

xx, Danae

Setting Boundaries with Your Interior Design Clients: Myths and Strategies

You’re friendly, you’re responsive, and you show up for your clients. As an interior designer, these are all fantastic qualities that have likely helped you develop strong relationships with your clients. However, without proper boundaries, you may find yourself experiencing scope creep and burnout. Fortunately, there are ways to set boundaries with your clients that will ultimately benefit both you and your business. Let's explore some common myths and counterstrategies below.

Myth: You need to be available to your clients 24/7.

Reality: One of the most important boundaries to establish is how and when you can be reached. Clearly define acceptable channels of communication and schedules, and share these guidelines during the initial consultation. For example, you may want to limit written communication to email or schedule weekly check-ins via phone or video chat. Be sure to establish clear expectations and put them in writing as part of the contract. When laying out your limits, frame them in a positive way. Instead of saying, "Do NOT contact me via text message," you could say, "Our team will be happy to receive your questions via email and offer updates during our weekly check-ins."

Myth: Reasonable clients know better than to call on weekends or ask for extra favors.

Reality: While your clients are probably reasonable people, they may not be familiar with the interior design process. As such, it's your job to educate them about your policies and procedures. Don't assume that certain expectations are obvious; be explicit about them from the beginning of the project. For example, if you charge extra for revisions or changes beyond a certain point, make sure this is communicated in writing and discussed before any work begins. By stating the obvious, you can avoid misunderstandings and help your clients feel more secure about the project.

Myth: If a client makes a request outside of the agreed-upon scope, you should say no.

Reality: Well, it’s important to clarify that you can say no, especially if you don't have the capacity or desire to take on additional tasks or revisions. But can you offer a realistic alternative that works for everyone? Can you outsource certain tasks so you’re not overwhelmed by the added workload? If so, instead of simply saying no, try saying, "Yes, we can do that! However, that task falls outside of the agreed-upon scope and will come with an hourly charge. Shall we proceed?" By offering solutions rather than simply saying no, you can provide excellent service and potentially upsell your services while still keeping your scope defined and fair.

Myth: Texting back really quick on a Sunday isn’t going to eat into your free time.

Reality: If you go against your own word, you risk clients losing respect for them and expecting you to continue texting them back at all hours. It can be easy to forget that clients often feel better cared for when you are assertive and stick to your boundaries because it shows you’re confident in your experience. So avoid making exceptions or bending the rules, as this can lead to confusion. By being consistent, you will create a clear and predictable framework for the project that will help it run more smoothly.

Myth: You'll feel more relaxed if you address business matters right away.

Reality: OK, hold on. I’m not saying to let your tasks pile up beyond control, but subscribing to this belief muddles the line between work and personal life. There will always be things that need your attention, but the fact is they can wait, and it can be a tough learning process to start to accept that you have a full inbox and still stay present and engaged with your downtime activities. Set an automatic email reply if you’re worried about inquiries going unattended. But guarding your personal time is essential to avoid burnout and resentment. Besides, you’ll bring your best energy and performance to work when you rest properly and have a life outside of it.

A final note: Remember that your boundaries are your own, and you don't need to compare yourself to other designers or let anyone tell you how these things are done. Don't be afraid to assert them firmly and as many times as you need to. With clear boundaries in place, you can create a project experience that is both efficient and enjoyable for all, leaving you energized and ready to take on the next challenge.

xx, Danae