8 Secrets to Running a Design Business That Let's You Travel More

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

What if your design business could fuel your wanderlust instead of keeping you tethered to your desk? Picture sketching layouts in a Parisian café or finding inspiration for a project while wandering through the markets of Marrakesh. Of course, many of us have commitments—family, routines, the daily grind—that keep us tied down. But here’s the thing: in life, either you travel, or you don’t. And the same principles that help you carve out time for personal adventures apply to your business. We’re here to help you chart a course toward a design business that supports your love for exploration without missing a beat on client satisfaction.

1. Know Your Ideal Clients and Projects

The first step to creating a travel-friendly business is attracting the right clients. Not everyone will align with your way of working, especially if you plan to work remotely for part of the year. Focus on clients who value your expertise and trust you to manage projects effectively. This is particularly important if your work involves a mix of in-person and remote services.

If you’re still saying yes to clients who overcomplicate processes, now’s the time to tighten your criteria. It’s not about being picky; it’s about building a sustainable business. Clear communication from the start sets expectations and helps clients feel secure.

2. Balance Virtual and In-Person Services

Many designers don’t work exclusively with virtual services, but incorporating them can provide more flexibility. Virtual design allows you to handle much of the planning and conceptual work remotely, even for on-site projects. While the biggest paychecks often come from in-person jobs, adding virtual options can free up your schedule, giving you more time to travel.

Offering both in-person and virtual services creates a diversified portfolio. For example, you could take on large on-site projects while also offering virtual consultations or mood boards to fill gaps in your calendar. This mix can lead to more consistent income without locking you into a rigid schedule.

3. Automate Your Processes

Automation tools can streamline invoicing, contracts, and client onboarding, reducing the time you spend on admin tasks. The less time you spend on repetitive backend work, the more time you’ll have for designing and, of course, traveling. With systems in place, you’ll be free to focus on high-value tasks while your business runs efficiently in the background.

4. Delegate and Build a Reliable Team

Delegation is a game-changer when it comes to running a flexible business. While some site visits might be unavoidable, much of the work—from client communication to logistics—can be handled by trusted collaborators. A strong team or network ensures that projects move forward smoothly, even when you’re away.

This could include virtual design assistants, local contractors, or a network of specialists who share your standards. By sharing responsibilities, you can focus on high-level decision-making and design work while leaving the logistical details to capable hands. Delegating well means you’re not tied to every aspect of every project, freeing you to enjoy your travels without sacrificing quality.

5. Diversify Your Income Streams

Diversifying your income gives you financial breathing room and reduces the need to juggle multiple intensive projects at once. An online shop, for example, can generate passive income while showcasing your design aesthetic. Platforms like Sidedoor let you curate furnishings and decor for clients, creating an additional revenue stream that doesn’t tie you to a single location.

Other options include offering online courses, publishing a design guide, or consulting on smaller projects. These avenues allow you to scale your business in ways that support your lifestyle goals. Check out our Creating Passive & Multiple Income Streams for Interior Designers mini-guide, packed with actionable ideas for generating additional income streams and step-by-step instructions to help you implement them. 

6. Streamline Your Workflow

A consistent and efficient workflow keeps your business running smoothly, whether you’re at home or halfway across the globe. Templates for onboarding, presentations, and deliverables can save time and reduce repetitive tasks.

Define a clear process for every stage of a project and communicate it to your clients. This builds trust and keeps projects on track, even when you’re traveling. A streamlined approach means you can focus on both work and leisure without unnecessary stress.

7. Maintain Client Confidence

Traveling doesn’t mean neglecting your clients. They shouldn’t feel any disruption in service, so it’s important to stay available and responsive. Use scheduling tools to send updates during their business hours, even if you’re in a different time zone. Regular communication keeps things moving and reassures clients that their projects are your priority.

Let clients know your travel plans in advance and highlight how you’ll manage their projects during that time. When clients feel informed and supported, they’re more likely to trust your ability to work remotely.

8. Draw Inspiration from Travel

Travel isn’t just a break; it’s a source of creative energy. Immersing yourself in new environments, cultures, and architecture can spark ideas that elevate your work. From vibrant markets to historical landmarks, these experiences add depth and richness to your designs. 

Document your travels through photos, sketches, or journals, and find ways to incorporate what you discover into your projects. Your clients will appreciate the stories and thoughtfulness behind your designs.

Designing a Life of Freedom

Think about why you fell in love with interior design—it’s about creating new spaces and experiences. Traveling offers you that same joy on a grander scale. And here’s the good news: it’s not all or nothing. You don’t have to choose between being a digital nomad and staying glued to your home office. Start small—plan one trip this year and see how it goes. When you realize your business can thrive even while you’re away, you might find yourself booking that next adventure sooner than you thought. Don’t let your other dreams get buried under stacks of samples. Go explore!

xx, Danae

Top 10 Ways to Monetize Your Interior Design Business

I get it, full-service design projects are the stars of the show. But branching out a bit can boost your income more than you might think. Diversifying your revenue streams can make your online presence more dynamic and attract a broader range of clients. Plus, exploring new avenues can inject fresh creativity into your workday. Here are ten effective ways to monetize your interior design business:

1. Designer for a Day

Ideal for designers who enjoy quick, impactful projects.

Offer a “Designer for a Day” service where clients can hire you for a set time to provide professional guidance on their design choices. This approach is perfect for clients on a budget and can lead to larger projects in the future​.

2. E-commerce Store

Great for designers with a knack for selecting unique products.

Launch an e-commerce store to sell curated home decor items, furniture, or your designs. This allows you to reach a global audience and generate revenue from product sales, leveraging your taste and expertise in home design.

3. Furniture or Fabric Line

Perfect for those wanting to establish their brand through product lines.

Collaborate with manufacturers to create your own line of furniture, textiles, or home accessories. This can provide continuous income and help set your brand apart in the competitive design market​.

4. Publish a Book

Ideal for designers who enjoy writing and have valuable insights to share.

Writing a book about your design philosophy, tips, and experiences can establish you as an authority in the field. You can publish traditionally or self-publish an e-book to reach your audience. Bonus points if it can double as a beautiful coffee table book!

5. Holiday Decor Services

Great for those who love seasonal decorating.

Offer holiday decor services to clients who want their homes or offices to look festive. This service can be a fantastic source of income and a fun way to engage with clients during seasons that can sometimes otherwise be slower.

6. Virtual Interior Design (E-Design)

Perfect for tech-savvy designers and DIY-friendly clients.

Provide virtual design services where clients send photos and measurements, and you provide design concepts and recommendations. This flexible, scalable model allows you to reach clients far and wide​.

7. Interior Design Workshops

Ideal for designers who enjoy teaching and interacting with others.

Conduct workshops to teach design principles, space optimization, and color coordination. These can be held in-person or virtually, catering to different audiences from homeowners to aspiring designers.

8. Blogging and Social Media

Perfect for designers who love sharing ideas and engaging online.

Start a blog or a YouTube channel to share design tips, trends, and project showcases. Monetize through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and ad revenue. This requires consistent content creation but can significantly boost your visibility.

9. Digital Products

Ideal for designers looking to generate passive income.

Create and sell digital products like design templates, mood boards, and e-books. These can be sold on platforms like Etsy or your own website, reaching a wide audience with minimal ongoing effort.

10. Subscription Services

Great for maintaining ongoing client relationships.

Offer subscription-based services where clients pay a regular fee for continuous design support, updates, and seasonal refreshes. This model provides steady income and keeps clients engaged with your services​.

Implementing these strategies can help you explore new markets and boost your revenue streams. Choose the options that align best with your brand and expertise, and start diversifying your interior design business today!

xx, Danae

8 Pros to Hiring an Interior Design Stylist

Among the many different hats that participate in an interior design project, there is someone, like a behind-the-scenes magician, who has the powerful ability to spin a cohesive and visually compelling narrative with an apparent wave of their wand. I’m talking about an interior stylist, a role that goes under-appreciated all too often. But you might wonder, given your own keen sense of style, what value does an interior stylist add?

What’s the difference between an interior designer and an interior stylist?

Interior designers, often backed by formal education and certifications, tend to focus on the structural and functional design of spaces, tackling complex renovation projects with an eye for building codes and architectural nuances. Interior stylists, on the other hand, have mastered the more visual and decorative aspects, bringing spaces to life for photoshoots, events, and daily enjoyment. They skillfully curate decor, textiles, and accessories to create aesthetically pleasing settings without the need for formal certification. Their flexibility in project scope, rates, and timelines offers a distinct approach compared to the structured, regulated projects managed by interior designers.

What are the benefits of hiring an interior stylist?

1. Efficiency: Whether you’re racing against a looming project deadline with last-minute accessory needs or seeking an adept hand for photoshoot day, enlisting an interior stylist can really streamline your process and save you precious time.

2. Broaden Your Horizons: Interior stylists bring fresh eyes and innovative ideas into your project, broadening the scope of possibilities for enhancing your space's visual allure.

3. Art of Styling Mastery: While it might seem obvious, the nuanced art of styling—think arranging shelves, tables, and spaces—is a specialized skill that not all interior designers have the luxury of time to perfect. Interior stylists excel in this arena.

4. Trend Savvy: Always ahead of the curve, stylists have a unique understanding of current and emerging design trends, seamlessly integrating them into your space to ensure it feels both modern and timeless.

5. Resourcefulness: Their toolkit includes extensive networks of suppliers and artisans, stylists are often able to unearth distinctive pieces that introduce character and uniqueness to your design, including items not accessible to the general public.

6. Ready for Spotlight: Seasoned interior stylists are used to working closely with photographers, brands, and editorial teams. When aiming for publication or to make a splash in marketing materials, stylists ensure your space is photogenic and polished, enhancing its appeal and the likelihood of being featured.

7. Attention to Detail: With an eye for the minutiae, stylists can transform a room through the meticulous selection and placement of accessories, lighting, and art, elements that might be overlooked but can significantly impact the overall feel of a space.

8. Collaborative Networking: Working with an interior stylist is a chance for mutual promotion. By sharing and crediting each other's work on social media, both parties can extend their reach and open new networking opportunities, enhancing project visibility and fostering industry connections efficiently.

So, how can you find the right interior stylist?

Start by diving into social media platforms and design websites, where many stylists showcase their portfolios. Instagram, Pinterest, and Houzz are great places to see their work in action and get a sense of their style and creativity. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have embarked on similar projects; word-of-mouth can lead you to talented professionals whose work aligns with your vision. When you connect with potential stylists, discuss your project goals and preferences openly—this conversation can give you a clear insight into their approach and whether it meshes well with your expectations. Remember, a good fit goes beyond aesthetics; it's about finding someone whose communication style and project management skills align with yours, ensuring a smooth and collaborative experience.

Things to keep in mind…

• Make sure you're on the same page with your stylist about how much or how little you want the space styled, as well as the aesthetic direction, so the decor fits just right without overshadowing your design.

• Stylists' pricing can vary widely based on their experience, the project's scope, and even the location. This means that hiring a stylist is an investment that requires careful consideration. It's important to weigh the stylist's rates against the value they bring to your project.

Deciding to bring an interior stylist on board for your project's photoshoots often hinges on a few key factors: the interior designer's own confidence in their styling prowess, the allocated budget, and what you're aiming to achieve with the shoot. If the goal is to produce top-tier, publication-ready images that could draw in more clientele or spotlight your work, then investing in a stylist could pay off. On the flip side, if you're confident in your own styling skills and have a solid plan for the shoot, more power to you!

xx, Danae

Have Fun With Your Marketing: Interior Design Edition

There is so much noise today – so many brands, social media, and entrepreneurs trying to figure out ways to STAND OUT from the crowd.

I say have FUN with your marketing. Be yourself, attract your ideal client and think outside the box. Live’s short, so here are a few ways to have fun with your marketing.

This post was created using Chat GPT.

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, standing out from the crowd is essential. Traditional methods may get the job done, but injecting a dose of creativity and fun into your marketing strategy can elevate your brand and captivate your audience in ways you never thought possible. In this blog post, we'll explore some unique and entertaining ways to make your marketing efforts not only effective but enjoyable for both you and your target audience.

1. Interactive Content:

Break away from static content and engage your audience with interactive experiences. Create quizzes, polls, and surveys that not only provide valuable insights but also entertain and educate. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer interactive features that allow users to participate directly, making your brand a memorable part of their online experience.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks:

People love to see what happens behind closed doors. Offer your audience a sneak peek into your office culture, creative processes, or product development. This humanizes your brand, fostering a sense of connection and trust. Use social media stories or live streams to give your audience an exclusive look behind the curtain.

3. User-Generated Content Campaigns:

Turn your customers into your brand ambassadors by encouraging them to create and share content related to your products or services. Host contests or challenges that inspire users to showcase their creativity. This not only provides you with a wealth of authentic content but also builds a community around your brand.

4. Themed Campaigns and Holidays:

Take advantage of special occasions and holidays by incorporating them into your marketing strategy. Create themed campaigns that resonate with your audience's emotions during these times. Whether it's a clever April Fools' prank, a heartwarming Valentine's Day message, or a spooky Halloween promotion, aligning your brand with relevant events can make your marketing more memorable. 

5. Gamification:

Transform mundane tasks into engaging experiences through gamification. Create games or challenges that relate to your products or services. This not only adds an element of fun but also encourages customer interaction. Consider loyalty programs, where customers can earn rewards or discounts by completing challenges or reaching milestones.

6. Interactive Installations:

Break away from the digital realm and create interactive installations in physical spaces. Whether it's a pop-up shop, an art installation, or an experiential event, providing a tangible and immersive experience can leave a lasting impression on your audience.

7. Humorous and Relatable Content:

Everyone loves a good laugh. Inject humor into your content to make it more relatable and shareable. Memes, funny videos, and witty captions can go a long way in capturing your audience's attention and making your brand more approachable.

Marketing doesn't have to be a serious affair. By infusing creativity, interactivity, and a sense of fun into your strategy, you not only capture your audience's attention but also create memorable experiences that set your brand apart. Embrace the unconventional, experiment with new ideas, and watch as your marketing efforts become not just effective but genuinely enjoyable for both your team and your customers.

xx, Danae

Easy (and FREE) Ways You Can Use ChatGPT and AI in Your Interior Design Business—UPDATED 2025

If you're not utilizing ChatGPT, you're missing out. AI isn't a passing trend; it's a FREE powerhouse tool that's revolutionizing how we work. Whether you're streamlining administrative tasks, getting creative inspiration, or simplifying client communication or processes, an AI tool like ChatGPT is what every interior designer needs to stay ahead.

Still skeptical? Here's why ChatGPT is your best business partner.

1. Emails, Done Right

Writing emails to clients can eat up a surprising amount of time. But with ChatGPT, you can craft personalized, professional emails in seconds, whether you're dealing with project updates, scope changes, or handling a delicate client situation.

Example: “Can you help me write a polite but firm email to a client requesting design revisions outside the original scope?”

2. Instant Design Feedback

Stuck in a design rut? ChatGPT can quickly suggest fresh perspectives, offer creative tweaks, or even help you come up with new design ideas—whether you’re working on a color palette, furniture layout, or theme.

Example: “How can I incorporate biophilic design elements into a modern kitchen?”

3. Research, Simplified

Endless hours spent researching materials, finishes, and products? ChatGPT can instantly provide options and help you compare pros and cons, saving you a ton of research time and ensuring your choices align with your design goals.

Example: “What are the best eco-friendly flooring options for high-traffic areas?”

4. Social Media Content Without the Hassle

Struggling to keep up with social media? ChatGPT can help you craft compelling posts, create catchy captions, and suggest trending hashtags, making your digital presence both effective and fun.

Example: “Write a catchy caption for a before-and-after of a minimalist living room transformation.”

5. Budgeting Help at Your Fingertips

Need help allocating your project budget without compromising on style? ChatGPT can help you prioritize design elements, find affordable alternatives, and even suggest cost-saving tips for high-end looks on a budget.

Example: “I need help balancing my client’s budget for a full bedroom redesign without sacrificing quality.”

6. Streamline Your Design Proposals

Writing proposals can be time-consuming, but ChatGPT can help you draft clear, professional proposals in no time, making sure you stay on top of client requests and expectations.

Example: “Can you help me create a proposal for a residential renovation with a focus on modern design?”

7. Create Custom Checklists

Stay organized with personalized checklists that help you manage your design projects from start to finish. ChatGPT can generate to-do lists, project timelines, and even room-specific guides to keep your workflow efficient.

Example: “Can you create a checklist for designing a functional home office with a focus on ergonomics?”

8. Simplify Client Communication

Client communication doesn’t need to be complicated. ChatGPT helps you craft responses that are clear, professional, and tactful, making your interactions smoother and more productive.

Example: “How do I communicate to a client that they’re asking for a change that wasn’t part of the original design contract?”

9. Generate SEO-Friendly Content

Want to boost your online visibility? ChatGPT can help you write blog posts, articles, and website content that are optimized for search engines, helping more potential clients find your business.

Example: “Write an SEO-friendly blog post on the top 5 design trends to watch in 2025.”

10. Stay on Top of Trends

Keeping up with design trends is essential for staying relevant. ChatGPT can summarize emerging trends, recommend materials, and help you infuse fresh elements into your designs.

Example: “What are the most popular sustainable design trends for 2025?”

Don’t Fall Behind—Start Using AI Today

ChatGPT is a tool that can change the way you work. It’s a time-saver, a creative partner, and an organizational genius—all wrapped up into one. Still not convinced? Take it for a test drive. The more you use it, the more you'll see its potential.

Plus, AI and ChatGPT prompts are everywhere—on social media, Pinterest, and beyond. Save the ones that resonate with you and keep a collection for easy access. With the right prompts, you can take this tool even further, making it work for your unique design business.

That said, like any AI tool, ChatGPT should be used with a bit of caution. Always proofread what it generates, refine the wording to match your voice, and add a personal touch to keep your communication authentic. AI is powerful, but your expertise is irreplaceable.

Your competition is already embracing AI—don’t let them get too far ahead.

xx, Danae

How Virtual Reality Can Help Interior Designers

Interior designers are used to showing their proposals in 2D and 3D images. So, the logical next step is an even more immersive way to help clients better understand your vision and get a better sense of what the space will feel like. This is where Virtual Reality (VR) comes in. Users wear a headset to interact with realistic digital environments, taking design from theoretical and hypothetical to experiential.

Although polished and approachable programs for VR in interior design have not yet reached mainstream markets, a glance at technology news indicates that the industry is rapidly moving in that direction. If you need a sign of the times, Metaverse celebrated the first edition of the Metaverse Architecture and Design Awards (MAD).

So, let’s muse about the potential benefits that VR could offer you as an interior designer, proving that it’s worth staying tuned to its new advancements. By utilizing VR programs, both designers and clients can immerse themselves in 360-degree designed spaces, offering a heightened level of realism and perspective. This opens up possibilities such as:

Unleashing Creative Boundaries:

With VR, designers can explore daring and innovative design directions without the concern of significant time investments, fostering creativity and pushing design boundaries to new heights.

Enhanced Client Engagement:

VR enhances client meetings by providing an immersive experience that brings the space to life. Clients can visualize and feel the design firsthand, leading to better feedback, improved satisfaction, and stronger collaborative decision-making.

Streamlined Material Selection:

VR enables designers to virtually explore a wide range of finishes, textures, and materials. By visualizing these options in VR, designers can save valuable time and money on ordering physical samples, making informed decisions upfront, and reducing the need for costly returns.

Error Prevention and Design Accuracy:

Through immersive VR experiences, designers can identify and address potential design flaws or mistakes. By exploring the space from an immersed perspective, designers understand how different elements come together, minimizing the chances of overlooked details.

Gaining Competitive Edge:

As VR becomes increasingly sought-after by clients, embracing this technology positions interior designers ahead of the competition. Offering immersive experiences sets designers apart and meets the growing demand for cutting-edge design services.

So, are there any downsides to using VR as part of your interior design process? More than drawbacks, you’ll likely face some initial hurdles such as the investment and learning curve. While VR provides immersive visual experiences, it currently falls short in replicating other sensory aspects crucial to interior design, such as touch, smell, and realistic sound propagation.

All in all, VR presents a multitude of exciting advantages and possibilities for the field of interior design. As technology continues to advance, we can look forward to leveraging its capabilities to enhance the design process, create immersive experiences, and push the boundaries of what is possible in designing and visualizing interior spaces.

xx, Danae

---

DIGITAL TEMPLATES?

We love helping busy interior designers like you! So, in an effort to provide the best resources possible, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU about what templates you’d like to see from us. Browse our current collection of templates here for any you might need or want, and email us at danae@elitedesignassistants.com to let us know what other templates you’d like us to make and have available for instant download! 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Interior Photoshoot - 9 Keys

It's not uncommon to develop an emotional attachment to certain projects, homes that you would love to keep as your own. However, all we can keep are the cherished memories and, of course, the photos. And these photos are arguably your most important marketing tool. In this guide, we will explore practical tips and considerations to help you maximize the potential of your interior photoshoots. From preparing clients and hiring a professional photographer to styling techniques and utilizing natural light, we will cover everything you need to know to create captivating images.

1. Set expectations from the start.

Before starting a project, communicate with your clients about the importance of photography and its impact on your portfolio. Ensure their cooperation and discuss any privacy concerns for high-profile clients. Setting expectations early on will help you secure the necessary access and cooperation for a successful photoshoot.

2. Arrange for an empty space.

Whenever possible, schedule the photoshoot when the owners can temporarily vacate the space. This allows you to work without distractions and gives you the freedom to rearrange personal belongings that may not align with the desired aesthetic. Before moving anything, take reference photos of the space as it is, so you can easily restore it to its original state afterward.

3. Hire a professional interior photographer.

While you may have an eye for design, entrusting the photography to a professional specialized in interior photography is highly recommended. They possess the technical expertise, equipment, and knowledge of angles, lighting, and composition that can truly elevate your images. Their experience can help you achieve magazine-worthy shots that increase your chances of publication.

4. Enlist an assistant.

Having an extra set of hands during the photoshoot can be immensely beneficial. An assistant can help with styling, swapping props, and setting up different options quickly, saving you time and ensuring smooth transitions between shots.

5. Come prepared with styling props.

To achieve a polished and inviting look, bring a variety of props that add texture and interest to your photographs. Consider items such as baskets, pillows, throws, freshly cut flowers or branches, vases, coffee table books, and even framed artwork. These props will allow you to create layers and a lightly lived-in feel that resonates with viewers.

6. Share the project's story.

Collaborate with your photographer by sharing the backstory and inspiration behind the design. Understanding the narrative will enable them to capture images that reflect and enhance the project's essence. By creating small vignettes that showcase everyday moments–think a sliced lemon next to a pitcher of lemonade on the kitchen counter–you can infuse the photos with a sense of intimacy and authenticity.

7. Discuss shot variety and formats.

Engage in a conversation with your photographer about the desired shot selection and formats. Discuss the importance of both overview shots to showcase the entire room and close-up shots that capture intricate details. You’ll want options in different formats that serve varying purposes and platforms. Ask for mostly vertical shots (best for magazines and social media) and some horizontal shots for your website.

8. Utilize natural light.

Communicate the orientation of the space and the best time of day for natural light to your photographer. Shoot during the hours when indirect natural light bathes the room, creating a warm glow. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause harsh shadows and highlights. Turn off artificial lights to maintain a consistent and natural ambiance. And don’t forget to hide the cords. 

9. Prepare yourself for the long haul.

Photoshoots can be time-consuming, often lasting an entire day or even multiple days for larger projects. Prioritize your comfort by wearing suitable clothing, staying hydrated, and getting ample rest. Fully immerse yourself in the opportunity to capture every aspect of your meticulously designed space.

By following these tips and preparing for the photoshoot well ahead of time, you can ensure that the best of your project is brought out to make a great impression on potential clients and the industry as a whole. So enjoy it!

xx, Danae

---

DIGITAL TEMPLATES?

We love helping busy interior designers like you! So, in an effort to provide the best resources possible, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU about what templates you’d like to see from us. Browse our current collection of templates here for any you might need or want, and email us at danae@elitedesignassistants.com to let us know what other templates you’d like us to make and have available for instant download! 

Planning Like a Pro: 6 Effective Tips for Organizing Your Editorial Calendar

If you're reading this, chances are you can understand the struggle all too well. It's the middle of the week, and you haven't managed to share anything on Instagram yet. On top of that, you have a backlog of content from site visits that you haven't had the chance to sift through. As an interior designer, “social media manager” can feel like yet another hat you have to wear... but fear not! By implementing a well-designed editorial calendar, you can bring order to the chaos and find your rhythm in no time. Let’s dive in.

An editorial calendar can be described as a comprehensive plan outlining specific themes, determining the content you'll post on designated days, and scheduling it well in advance, often spanning weeks or even months. This includes photos and videos for social media, newsletters, blog content, and anything else you share online. So, how can you make the most of it?

1. Use an Effective Platform

You may already be using project management software or programs that you could also use for creating your editorial calendar. Incorporate your content into your workspace scope. Asana, Trello, and Monday.com are just a few popular options.

2. Keep Your Files Together

Even if you don’t have time to sort through all your photos and videos the same day, take 3 minutes to do a content dump to a sub-folder, within your master content folder. Name it in a way that allows you to find it easily in the future (e.g. Paint Sample Site Visit).

3. Block Out Your Planning Time

Instead of scrambling to create content in short, stressful bursts, schedule regular time, such as once every two weeks, to sit down and consider your current marketing strategy along with your firm's latest highlights. Map out a plan for the next month and generate ideas for the following months.

4. Set Notifications and Reminders

Having a plan is great, but it can easily slip your mind. Set scheduled reminders to post your content. Some project management platforms integrate with social media management tools, enabling you to schedule and publish posts directly from the platform. Aim to post during high-traffic hours, and keep an eye on the times that tend to be most successful for you.

5. Alternate Types of Content

To keep things fresh and interesting, alternate between different types of content. Include behind-the-scenes progress photos, day-in-the-life reels, images related to your blog posts, seasonal posts, and high-quality portfolio shots. Ensure that everything aligns with your brand identity and aesthetic. Maintain a master timeline of content topics to have a quick overview of your posting history.

6. Outsource

You actually don’t have to do all of this on your own. Conceiving all the ideas behind your content can be time-consuming, yet maintaining an online presence is crucial. Consider meeting with a Virtual Design Assistant to brief them on your brand identity and voice. They can take a lot of the work off your plate, so you can spend more time actually designing!

By calmly curating your content themes and setting a realistic posting frequency, you can ensure a steady flow of captivating posts that resonate with your target audience. Don't be afraid to collaborate with guest contributors and align your content with key events to further enhance your online presence. And remember, a content bank is your best friend for storing and organizing ideas. So, get planning and watch your interior design brand flourish in the online realm!

xx, Danae

---

DIGITAL TEMPLATES?

We love helping busy interior designers like you! So, in an effort to provide the best resources possible, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU about what templates you’d like to see from us. Browse our current collection of templates here for any you might need or want, and email us at danae@elitedesignassistants.com to let us know what other templates you’d like us to make and have available for instant download!