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Getting referrals from happy clients should feel as natural as them bragging about their new kitchen island. Instead, it often feels like asking someone to write a love letter for you: weird, a little vulnerable, and kind of pushy if you get the timing wrong. But don’t worry—we’ve got some tips to make the whole process feel effortless and just smoother.
Read MoreIn an effort to better understand the biggest challenges interior designers face, I spend time in several interior design Facebook groups, and one issue that keeps coming up is intellectual property (IP) violations. So, let’s break down what IP law actually is and why it matters to interior designers.
Read MoreYour website is so much more than just a portfolio. It’s your most powerful sales tool. When optimized correctly, it works around the clock to attract ideal clients, filter out the wrong ones, and book discovery calls—allowing you to focus on your craft. But here’s the truth: many designers never learn how to build a website that’s strategically optimized to convert visitors into leads or clients. Worse, they often struggle to even get visitors in the first place. Don’t worry, though; it’s never too late to turn things around!
With just a few simple (yet impactful) changes, your website can start working harder for you. Let’s walk through several actionable strategies to transform your site into a lead-generation machine—no tech degree required.
Read MoreFurniture design is a historically and culturally rich multi-disciplinary field that blends art, engineering, marketing, and manufacturing principles to craft the objects that shape our living and working spaces.
Fortunately, the importance of protecting the intellectual property rights of the designers, inventors, artisans and engineers responsible for creating furniture designs, is largely recognized by most countries.
In this article, we'll delve into the intellectual property laws that serve as tools for protecting the unique and distinctive elements of furniture design.
From the functional aspects of patented features to the artistic expression guarded by copyright, and the brand identity encapsulated in trademarks, we'll cover the details of each approach. We'll also touch upon international design registrations, shedding light on how businesses can secure comprehensive protection for their furniture designs in the global marketplace.
Read MoreAs an interior designer, your brand is all about aesthetics, functionality, and creating a seamless experience. So why should your promotional items be any different? Whether you're gearing up for a trade show, looking for the perfect client gift, or just want to keep your brand in front of potential clients, the right promo products can make all the difference.
But let's be real—not all promotional items are created equal. You don’t want cheap throwaways that end up in the trash. You want elevated, thoughtful, and on-brand products that reflect your expertise and leave a lasting impression.
Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up the best promotional items for interior designers in 2025—and even better, Elite Design Assistants can help you source and order them hassle-free!
Read MoreAs we move deeper into 2025, interior designers are facing a whole new set of challenges and opportunities. From product and contractor shortages to staying on top of growing to-do lists, designers are always on the lookout to find innovative solutions. Whether you're balancing efficiency, maintaining your creative energy, or handling a constantly shifting market, it’s all about finding ways to work smarter—not harder. If you’re feeling this too, you're not alone!
Here are the top 5 questions we hear most often from designers—and some thoughtful answers to help you navigate today’s challenges and opportunities.
Read MoreWe’ve been seeing a lot of questions regarding trademarks in interior designer groups, and wanted to help by providing some information on whether you should trademark your business.
A trademark is a distinctive sign, symbol, word, or phrase that identifies and distinguishes a business or brand from others. For interior designers, trademarks help protect brand identity by securing your exclusive rights to your business name, logo, or tagline remains unique and legally safeguarded. Unlike copyrights, which protect artistic works, trademarks prevent competitors from using similar branding elements that could confuse customers.
Read MoreIf you've been paying attention to social media trends lately, you know that video marketing is dominating the digital space. From Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts, people are consuming more video content than ever before. And guess what? You can absolutely leverage this trend to boost your interior design business. Video content isn’t just for big brands—it’s a powerful tool for interior designers like you to increase visibility, grow your brand, and connect with potential clients. Don’t worry if you’re not a video pro; let’s break it down and see how video marketing can be a game-changer for your design studio in 2025.
Read MoreWhen you first entered the world of interior design, what did you envision your day-to-day life looking like? Maybe you pictured client meetings, site visits, and endless design consultations. Fast forward to now—does your reality match that dream, or are you feeling bogged down by the never-ending demands of the interior design business?
The good news is, you don’t have to choose between your passion for design and a more balanced lifestyle. With the growing popularity of virtual communication, new technologies, and the desire for more flexibility, many interior designers are shifting to a virtual-only model to meet both their clients' needs and their own.
Instead of handling sourcing, project management, or in-person meetings, think about offering services like virtual design consultations, shoppable design boards, or personalized style guides. These types of services are not only in high demand but can help you boost your efficiency, cut overhead costs, and even expand your client base far beyond your local market.
Read MoreWhat 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.
Read MoreMaybe social media has been sitting on your to-do list, perpetually bumped to the bottom in favor of more pressing design projects. Whether it’s because you feel like you’re “not creative enough” (spoiler: you are), get stuck in decision fatigue, or simply don’t have the bandwidth to think about hashtags and captions, it’s understandable. Social media management is its own beast, requiring a distinct skill set and sensibility.
But let’s face it—love it or loathe it, social media is one of the most powerful tools for getting your name out there. You’ve wisely decided to call in reinforcements and delegate this task to a Virtual Design Assistant (VDA). Great move!
Read MoreIf you’re reading this, chances are you’ve spotted some pretty telling signs that analysis paralysis might be hijacking your workflow. What exactly is analysis paralysis? It’s when you overthink every decision to the point where you’re stuck in neutral, unable to move forward. Think of it as your brain buffering indefinitely while your project deadlines loom.
Read MoreA new year doesn’t mean you need a whole new you—but it’s the perfect occasion to fine-tune your design life. Let’s trade in overworked schedules, messy workflows, and blurred boundaries for more creativity, clarity, and also fun. With 2025 on the horizon, it’s time to design a year you’ll love working in.
Read MoreLet's start by acknowledging that you probably didn’t set out to be a social media influencer–you’re an interior designer! It’s perfectly normal (and incredibly common) to feel a bit out of sync with today’s ever-changing social media standards. Luckily, managing your Instagram doesn’t have to become a full-time job; a social media manager can take the wheel if needed. But a little self-reflection never hurts, and you can see how your profile stacks up. If any of these cheeky descriptions hit home, read on for our pro tips to boost your Insta game!
Read MoreIf you struggle with content ideas while waiting on those final pro shots from a completed project, you’re not alone! Reveal photos are incredibly satisfying, but there’s so much you can share along the way to bring your followers (and future clients!) into the experience without loads of extra work. People love the journey just as much as the finished product. So, add some of these ideas to your content calendar, grab a few in-the-moment snaps, and let everyone in on the behind-the-scenes moments that make each project unique!
Read MoreHolidays are right around the corner, and for a lot of interior designers, the idea of fully disconnecting sounds like wishful thinking. End-of-year project crunches, a flood of to-dos, and the constant “just one last thing” requests can make even a short getaway feel impossible. But here’s the good news: with a few smart moves, you can get your affairs in order in a way that actually lets you unplug, feel at ease, and enjoy quality time with the people who matter most.
So, here’s your pre-holiday checklist. Let’s make this the year you can disconnect without the nagging feeling that the business will go up in flames in your absence.
1. Set Up an “Out of Office” (That Covers Everything)
The classic out-of-office reply can be a lifesaver if it’s set up right. Don’t just drop in dates—use this as a chance to be clear about expectations, both for your clients and for you. Set it up to start a day before your break, giving you some breathing room to wrap up any last-minute needs without a flood of “while you’re still here” requests. For a gentle heads-up, consider adding your upcoming OOO dates to your email signature a few weeks in advance. In your out-of-office message, make sure to include:
The exact dates you’ll be out of reach.
A “when to expect a response” timeframe for after your return.
A helpful contact in case of emergencies (a colleague or assistant, if available).
Some encouragement for the client to relax and enjoy the season, too.
Try wording it as a friendly note rather than a stiff business email. For example:
“Happy holidays! I’ll be away starting December 20th and returning to emails on January 3rd. I’ll catch up on messages in the order they arrive when I return, so don’t worry if there’s a short delay. Wishing you a restful, joyful season!”
2. Identify Priority Projects and Communicate Early
A couple of weeks before you log off, make a list of your open projects and categorize them by priority. Focus on what truly needs to happen before the break and what can wait until January. Then, communicate your timeline and availability clearly with each client. This can save you from “just a quick change” emails at the last minute.
Consider emailing clients to let them know where things stand, along with any next steps they should expect. Being proactive here reassures them that things are on track and lets you set clear boundaries about your availability.
3. Automate Reminders and Updates
Automation is your friend when you’re away. Set up automated email reminders for clients to keep them updated on timelines, due dates, and status updates. This could be as simple as an automated calendar notification or an email scheduled through your email service.
Think about these quick automations:
Scheduling reminders to send after the holidays, nudging clients if they have tasks to complete.
Reminders for you (or your assistant) about tasks that may need attention as soon as you return.
A quick setup can ensure clients aren’t left wondering what’s next and keep you from mentally rehashing what might fall through the cracks.
4. Delegate What You Can
If you’re feeling stretched, this might be the perfect time to consider delegating some of your workload. Tasks like managing client communications, organizing project details, and handling administrative odds and ends can be handed off to free up your time and let you fully disconnect. If you have an assistant or team, create shared documents and checklists so everyone knows who’s covering what while you’re away.
And if you don’t have a team in place, we, at Elite Design Assistants, can match you with virtual design assistants with specialties across project management, client support, social media, and beyond. There are experienced professionals ready to help take tasks off your plate so you can focus on what matters most this season.
5. Get Your Finances Ready for a Fresh Start
Before you head out, take some time to close out any lingering financial tasks. Invoice all remaining clients for completed work, make any last-minute payments, and consider reconciling your accounts. This gives you a clean slate when you’re back and prevents the classic “back to work” financial overwhelm.
If this sounds like a lot, just aim to get any “must-haves” done. You don’t need perfection here—just enough to help you come back without any big surprises.
6. Set Some Time for Yourself
It’s hard to relax if you go from full throttle to “vacation mode” in the blink of an eye. If possible, give yourself a day (or even an afternoon) to wind down before diving into holiday mode. Use this time to wrap up loose ends, plan for a smooth start to the new year, and do something for you. Even if it’s just half a day, this short pause can do wonders for your ability to relax.
7. Give Yourself Permission to Disconnect
This one’s a little different—it’s about your mindset. Chances are you’re dedicated to your clients, and that’s great. But remember: if you’ve set everything up, there’s nothing to worry about. You’ve prepped, planned, and communicated. The wheels will keep turning, and you’ll be back before you know it.
Try to remind yourself that you deserve a break as much as anyone else. For interior designers, creative and personal recharge isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. So embrace this time with family and friends, knowing that you’ve set yourself up for a worry-free holiday.
Happy holidays, and here’s to a restful (and well-deserved) break!
xx, Danae
The holidays are a prime opportunity to show your clients just how much you appreciate them. A thoughtful gift can say a lot about your attention to detail and your understanding of what brings joy into their lives. Whether you’re going for a little pampering, some gourmet touches, or a dash of adventure, these gift ideas will leave a lasting impression. Here are this year’s best picks:
After a whirlwind year, your clients will love something that helps them unwind and indulge. These luxurious picks bring comfort with a side of style—because who says relaxation can’t be chic?
Instantly vibe up any room with a sophisticated candle that fills the air with warm, inviting scents like sandalwood or bergamot. It’s the perfect gift for setting the mood, whether they’re entertaining guests or just having a quiet night in.
For candle lovers, this chic wrought iron snuffer adds that final touch to their relaxation ritual. It’s a small but mighty accessory that makes every candle-burning moment feel a little more special.
Sure, your clients might transfer the contents into those stylish dispensers you so thoughtfully selected for their bathrooms, but the micro moments of luxury will still be there with every wash. These are the kinds of details that elevate their daily routine—just the right amount of pampering.
If your clients love to cook, entertain, or just enjoy the finer things in life, these gifts will hit the sweet spot. From elegant barware to delicious treats, these are designed to make anyone feel like the host with the most.
Nothing says "I appreciate a good drink" like a stunning crystal decanter set. It’s one of those gifts that your clients will proudly display—and use to pour a perfectly chilled drink when hosting their next gathering.
Perfect for the client who loves to cook or entertain, this gourmet olive oil and balsamic set adds instant flavor to their kitchen. It's a foodie’s dream and a beautiful addition to their countertop (or pantry, for our clear-counter team).
Whether it’s for cheese, charcuterie, or appetizers, a serving board gives clients that proud host moment every time they use it. It’s functional, stylish, and makes even the simplest gatherings feel a little more elevated.
People love receiving a fun variety pack of gourmet hot chocolates, because who doesn’t like trying different flavors? It’s the ultimate cozy gift, perfect for snuggling up with loved ones or indulging in a solo treat during the colder months.
For the clients who are always planning their next getaway or love outdoor adventures, these gifts bring a sense of exploration—and they look just as good displayed at home. It’s all about blending style with adventure here.
A foldable, easy-to-carry picnic blanket is the perfect companion for outdoor gatherings, providing both style and function for spontaneous outings.
A leather-bound notebook makes a thoughtful gift for the client who loves jotting down travel ideas or simply needs a place to capture daily musings. It’s practical, stylish, and just feels special.
Sleek, personalized luggage tags are a travel essential, perfect for clients who are always on the go, offering a personal touch while being completely functional.
A vintage-inspired magnifying glass brings an air of exploration to their space, serving as both a functional tool and an elegant decor accent.
These holiday gift ideas are designed to make your clients feel appreciated, while also giving them something they’ll genuinely enjoy using or displaying. Happy gifting!
xx, Danae
Your time is precious, and making a name for yourself in the interior design industry seems to demand more of it every day. You got into design because of your passion for creating beautiful spaces, not to spend your time writing blog posts or crafting web copy. If you're considering delegating some of those tasks, like blogging or copywriting, to a Virtual Design Assistant (VDA), you're on the right track! But how do you get the most out of this partnership and still see results that reflect your brand?
As part of our “Best Practices” series, here are some tried-and-true tips for smoothly transitioning your content creation needs to a VDA while keeping your brand’s voice front and center.
1. Define Your Content Goals Clearly
Before offloading any writing tasks, set clear goals for your content. Are you looking to establish yourself as an expert in a niche, drive more traffic to your site, or engage potential clients? Knowing the specific purpose behind your content will help your VDA craft blog posts or marketing copy that aligns with your business objectives.
If part of your strategy includes improving search engine visibility, share that goal with your VDA upfront. Define any SEO keywords you’d like to focus on, so they can incorporate those into your content in an organic way. This can help build your online presence over time by aligning the content not just with your voice, but also with the terms your audience is searching for.
2. Share Examples of Your Voice and Tone
One of the trickiest parts of delegating writing is making sure the voice and tone still feel like you. To help your VDA capture your brand’s personality, share examples of past blog posts, social media captions, or newsletters that reflect the voice you want to maintain.
Do you prefer a conversational tone, or something more polished and professional? Are there specific phrases or ways of expressing yourself that you love—or hate? Do you crack the occasional joke or stay buttoned up? The more you communicate your style preferences upfront, the more quickly your VDA will adapt and produce content that feels authentic to your brand.
3. Create a Content Calendar Together
Content creation can easily slip through the cracks without a plan in place. Collaborate with your VDA to build a content calendar that outlines what needs to be written, when it’s due, and when it will go live. This will keep your content organized and help make sure it aligns with promotions, events, or project milestones. Plus, having a calendar gives both you and your VDA a clear sense of what’s coming up, making the content creation process less reactive and more strategic.
4. Provide Big Picture Insights
Your VDA might be great at crafting content, but you're the expert when it comes to your business. To create content that truly reflects your brand, they need to be fully up to speed on who you are, what your studio stands for, and the projects that define your work. Share the backstory of your business, key moments in your journey, and the personality traits that make your studio unique. Additionally, make sure your VDA knows about any standout projects you’ve completed or upcoming milestones. The more context they have, the more personal, engaging, and relatable the content will feel, both for your collaboration and for the reader.
Since your VDA isn’t working alongside you in a physical office, it’s essential to make an ongoing, conscientious effort to keep them in the loop with relevant details. Whether that’s through regular check-ins, sharing project updates, or just talking through your design philosophy, keeping these lines of communication open will help your VDA infuse your content with authenticity. This effort also makes the working relationship more human, turning what could feel like a strictly transactional partnership into a dynamic, creative collaboration.
5. Start Small
Don’t feel like you need to hand over all your content creation tasks at once. Start small—maybe with a single blog post or a few social media captions—and gradually build from there. This approach gives your VDA time to adapt to your style, and it gives you a chance to evaluate their work without feeling overwhelmed. Over time, as the relationship builds, you can delegate more complex tasks, such as long-form blog posts or newsletters.
6. Offer Constructive Feedback
Delegating writing isn’t a one-and-done process. Expect a bit of trial and error at first, and be prepared to offer constructive feedback. Instead of simply saying what you don’t like, explain why something didn’t work and offer suggestions for improvement.
For example, if a blog post doesn’t align with your vision, provide specific examples of how the tone or content could be adjusted. Remember, it takes time for your VDA to fully understand your brand’s nuances and preferences. With patience and open communication, you’ll eventually develop a working rhythm that requires less oversight and produces better results. The more specific and clear your feedback, the faster your VDA will adapt to your style.
7. Leverage Your VDA for More
Once your VDA is producing great blog posts and copy, don’t stop there! VDAs can often assist with additional tasks, like managing social media, updating your website, or even creating email marketing campaigns. You’ve already spent the time getting your VDA up to speed on your brand and voice, so why not tap into their full potential? Leveraging their skills beyond blogging can save you even more time and create a cohesive brand presence across all your content channels.
Delegating your blogging and copywriting to a VDA can feel like handing off part of your voice, but with the right practices in place, you’ll create a strong partnership that frees up your time without sacrificing quality.
xx, Danae
P.S. Not looking for a virtual design assistant right now? No problem! Elite Design Assistants might still have exactly what you need. Explore our extensive library of prewritten blog content and email templates—designed to help you stand out in the industry and connect effortlessly. Check out all our resources by clicking the button below.
If you’ve been an interior designer for a while, you’ve likely had at least one difficult encounter with a contractor. Whether it's missed deadlines, overlooked design details, or poor communication, challenges can arise. While a perfect, conflict-free relationship isn't always possible, there are strategies to help prevent tense situations.
Ultimately, designers and contractors share the same goal: keeping the client happy and delivering a successful project. Even if the contractor doesn’t work directly for you, following your vision means a smoother project, which benefits both you and the contractor.
As designers, it's important to manage contractors effectively because their work reflects on your professionalism. When a project is added to your portfolio, you can’t include a disclaimer about sloppy work being the contractor’s fault. The finished result is seen as your work, so it's in your best interest to make sure their performance meets your standards.
Some designers prefer the client to hire the contractor directly, which reduces liability but also limits control. Others recommend a list of trusted contractors to maintain some influence. Either way, taking proactive steps helps build a positive working relationship and reduces potential issues. Here’s how to manage those relationships more effectively.
One of the most important steps in managing contractors is making your role clear to both the client and the contractors from the beginning. Everyone involved needs to understand that you, as the designer, are the point of contact for any design-related questions. Contractors should never approach the client directly for input on the design or materials. All preferences and selections have been made by you for a reason, and any changes should be channeled through you to maintain the integrity of the project. And this way, the client doesn’t feel pressured to make decisions on-site without understanding the overall design context.
Start by clearly outlining the Construction Scope of Work—separate from your design scope—that details the contractor's responsibilities, timeline, and billing. Any changes to the original plan should be documented in a change order and signed by the client to confirm their approval of adjustments and associated costs. Additionally, document any mistakes or subpar work by the contractor, keeping photos, notes, and related communication in case issues escalate. Proper documentation helps protect you and ensures everyone stays accountable throughout the project.
A great way to set expectations is by submitting a guidelines booklet to the contractor before work begins. This booklet should outline key requirements such as maintaining a clean worksite, specific work hours, and client property protection (e.g., no smoking or even inappropriate language on-site). While these might seem like small details, they can have a big impact on the client’s experience and perception of the project. If you hire the team directly, you should draft a detailed contract with a series of commitments regarding timeline, quality standards, and communication protocols. It’s much easier to hold contractors accountable when you have a formal agreement in place.
In addition to your guidelines booklet, it’s smart to add key requirements directly into the margins of the drawing set. Contractors are much more likely to reference the drawings regularly, so if something is critical to the design (e.g., grout lines, paint finishes, or trim specifications), make sure it’s noted clearly on the drawings. This reduces the likelihood of important details being missed.
Before recommending or hiring a contractor, do your homework. Start by asking for references from previous clients and checking online reviews to get a sense of their reputation. It's also a good idea to visit completed projects, if possible, to see their work firsthand. Make sure that the contractor is both insured and bonded—this provides protection for both you and the client if something goes wrong. You can request copies of their insurance certificates and bond documentation, and don’t hesitate to verify them with the issuing companies. A little research up front can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Regular on-site supervision is key to making sure everything stays on track. By visiting the site frequently, you can spot issues early, confirm that your design is being followed, and maintain open communication with the contractor. This hands-on involvement shows both the contractor and the client that you’re committed to delivering a high-quality result.
Despite your best efforts, sometimes things will go wrong. Having a clear, predefined escalation plan can help you manage these issues when they do arise. For example, agree with the contractor on what happens if they miss a deadline or deliver subpar work. This might include financial penalties, extra work hours, or bringing in additional resources to fix the problem. Knowing there’s a plan in place can help you and the contractor navigate stressful situations with less friction.
Building rapport with contractors is one of the best long-term strategies for smooth project execution. When you take the time to foster trust and mutual respect, the contractor is more likely to go the extra mile for you, and you’ll find that projects tend to run more smoothly each time you work together. Beyond the logistics, it’s rewarding to have that human component in your work life—knowing you can rely on each other creates a better work environment for everyone involved.
Working with contractors isn’t always easy, but by clarifying expectations and maintaining consistent communication, you set the stage for a more successful project. And when everyone works together toward the same goal, the end result is a finished project that reflects well on both you and the contractor.
xx, Danae
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Finding your unique place in the design world starts with a bit of self-reflection. Here’s how to carve out your niche:
Identify Your Strengths: Are you great with bold color palettes? An expert at sustainable design? Know your superpower and lean into it.
Define Your Ideal Client: Knowing who you want to work with can help you tailor your messaging, portfolio, and marketing efforts.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
