Hot Young Designers Club | Interior Design Business Podcast

Shaun and Rebecca are back with another installment of the perennial favorite, the Just Stop series, where they call out things in the design world that seriously need to stop. They discussed Just Stops from the coaching industry (coaches who brag about their income without proving their value) to the frustrations with generic and ineffective outreach emails from vendors, the use of AI-generated renders without disclosing their authenticity, and much more!In this episode, they discuss:Shaun and Rebecca’s Hot Spot tour at High Point Market on October 26Coaches focus on their earnings instead of the results they help clients achieveThe importance of routine check-ups and preventive careUsing AI-generated renders and photorealistic images on social media without clearly labeling them as suchStop doing everything yourself in your business, especially for photo shootsGeneric, impersonal outreach emails from vendors and sales representativesPersonalizing your emails and messages and providing real value upfrontVendors making websites that are overly exclusive and difficult to accessHotels and hospitality design that lacks creativity and design appealMentioned:High Point Furniture Market: https://www.highpointmarket.org/Fall/2024/RegistrationOpen Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shop

Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Stephanie Nelson and Jessica Nelson from Etch Design Group, a full-service design studio. Stephanie and Jessica share their journey from colleagues to co-founders and how their unique skills and deep trust have allowed them to build a successful business. They also talk about harnessing the power of AI to streamline their design process and push the boundaries of their creativity.In this episode, they discuss:How Stephanie & Jessica met and started Etch Design GroupHow they divide responsibilities in their businessThe importance of communication and mutual support in their partnershipBuilding their team gradually, starting with interns and eventually hiring full-time employees as their business grewManaging a remote team, trusting their team, and giving them autonomyTheir fears and misconceptions about AI and embracing and exploring its potentialAI’s impact on creativity, ethics, and controlHow they use AI to improve their efficiency, creativity, and profitabilityWhy they prefer hourly billing and the pros and cons of using a flat rateUsing AI for design inspiration, visualization, and renderingThe potential of AI to transform the design industry Different AI tools designers can use to enhance their business operationsDetails of their live webinars to help people with various AI tools and techniquesMentioned:KBIS: https://kbis.com/Follow Etch Design Group: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/Check out Etch Design Group online: https://etchinteriordesign.com/Hear more from Jessica & Stephanie on their podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/100-lunches/id1727481441It’s time to discover AI for Interiors online: https://aiforinteriors.com/Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aiforinteriors/Check out their podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ai-for-interiors/id1734103554AI Tools Mentioned:Gemini: https://gemini.google.com/ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/Midjourney: https://www.midjourney.com/homeProme AI: https://www.promeai.pro/Listen back to Crystal Bright in Episode 125 for how she uses AI in her businessOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s...

What are your project management strategies? How do you set expectations with clients and manage your deadlines? Shaun and Rebecca discuss their project management strategies and methods for setting expectations with clients and managing deadlines in the world of interior design. They also dive deep into the challenges of managing project timelines, client expectations, predicting and planning capacity to avoid overbooking, and much more.In this episode, they discuss:How Shaun and Rebecca handle multiple projects and manage client expectationsDetermining if you have the capacity to take on a new project and avoid overbookingOrganizing and visualizing project workload and pipelineHandling challenges like clients being unresponsive or changing their minds during a projectSetting realistic project timelines and communicating them effectively to clients and adding buffer time for client feedback and approvalsSome project management tools – Gantt charts, Basecamp, Monday, etcDealing with clients who constantly change requirements or are slow to respond and how that impacts workflowTaking time off as a business owner, and challenges and considerations around taking a long breakStory of a problem Rebecca had with a third-party Dubsado templateThe importance of having backup systems and emergency contacts in place for your businessMentioned:PMO Work Management Software | monday.com: https://monday.com/work-management/pmo Gantt: https://www.gantt.com/ Basecamp: https://basecamp.com/ ClickUp: https://clickup.com/ Dubsado: https://www.dubsado.com/ Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shop

Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Crystal Bright, a virtual interior designer. Crystal shares how she grew her business in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Crystal has completed over 400 projects in the past five years and helps other designers transition to virtual work. Crystal explains how she uses AI and tools like 2020 Design Live to streamline her virtual design process and provide high-quality services to clients. In this episode, they discuss:Crystal’s story of starting a virtual interior design business and growing a lot during the 2020 pandemicCrystal was offering kitchen plans on Fiverr initially at a low cost of just $15 but later realized her valueOvercoming impostor syndrome, and gaining confidence in her design work through education and experience, and taking NKBA coursesVirtual design and rendering software that Crystal uses – 2020 Design Live, SketchUp, Lumion, etcPros and cons of flat rate vs hourly fee structures for design servicesChallenges of in-person design work vs remote work and balancing business and creativityHow Crystal automates her client communication and uses tools like Canvas, Monday CRM, Zapier, etc, to simplify workflowsHow Crystal streamlines her virtual projects with Design LiveFinding a balance between charging rates that clients can afford and appropriate compensation for her skills and expertiseStrategies for negotiating project proposals Using AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline client onboarding, interpreting clients’ questionnaires and design preferences, etcMentioned:Follow Crystal:@crystaldbrighthttps://www.instagram.com/crystaldbright/ @livingbrightinteriorshttps://www.instagram.com/livingbrightinteriors/ @3dbrightdesignshttps://www.instagram.com/3dbrightdesigns/ Living Bright Interiors Website: https://www.livingbrightinteriors.com/ NKBA courses for kitchen and bath: https://nkba.org/ Scanning floorpans with Canvas app: https://canvas.io/ Lumion for renderings: https://lumion.com/ Monday CRM app to communicate internally: https://monday.com/ Zapier for automation: https://zapier.com/ Loom for video replies and communication: https://www.loom.com/ Learn more about Cyncly and Design Live: https://www.2020spaces.com/2020products/2020designlive/ Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow -

You know what they say – Niche Is Riche. Finding a niche for your interior design business can make you rich and successful. But how do you get there, hotties? Shaun and Rebecca discuss the importance of finding and defining your niche in your business. They also share different approaches to finding and defining your niche, from being true to your personal style and skills to identifying unmet demands in the market. They also explore how to define and market their niches through refined language and curated portfolios.They encourage you to get out there and find your niche. With the right niche, you can build the business and life you want! In this episode, they discuss:Shaun and Rebecca’s plans for the 2024 High Point MarketWhat is a niche, and how can interior designers find and define their nicheDifferent approaches to finding and defining your niche:Being true to your personal style and skillsDoing research and understanding the market gaps to find your niche and not just following trendsHow can interior designers niche down in terms of project type, price point, design style, home type, or target demographicsHow Shaun and Rebecca have been refining their business niche over the yearsImportance of finding a niche that aligns with your skills and expertiseHow niching helps with marketing, branding, and attracting ideal clientsEditing your portfolio — hiding projects that don't align with your style, highlighting projects that showcase your styleHow to overcome common challenges in niching like differentiating from other designersShowcasing your niche through imagery, mood boards, Pinterest, blog posts, etcWorking remotely or nationally to broaden your market sizeMentioned:Episode 121: Evan Larkin, SEO for Interior Designers: https://hotyoungdesignersclub.com/episodes/121-evan-larkin-seo-for-interior-designers/ How to Find Your Business Niche on Business News Daily: https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/6748-business-niche-characteristics.html Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shop

Today's guest, Jennifer Ramsey, has not only mastered the art of creating stunning personalized spaces but also seamlessly incorporated furniture sales in her design process – a feat that has increased her furniture sales to a new height. In this episode, Jennifer talks about her strategic approach to design and furniture sales that has transformed the way her clients experience the design journey.In this episode, they discuss:Jennifer's journey from working for a luxury designer to starting her own businessJennifer's remodeling projects with Tankersley construction Incorporating furniture sales into her design servicesHer client inquiry process and how she communicates costs upfrontThe importance of discussing the budget during initial client callsJennifer’s experience with Sandler Sales System and how it helped her improve her sales processUsing investment guide to set client expectationsJennifer's approach to setting client expectations for minimum purchasing, especially for furnitureThe importance of identifying client pain points during the initial conversation to build trust and tailor her services to meet their specific needsUsing permission statements like “If at any point I’m not a good fit for you, or you’re not a good fit for me, is it okay if we say that to each other?” to establish trust and an open dialogueHandling client's budget fatigue during a projectSetting expectations with clients around furniture and window treatments How using Buildertrend allows contractors to be more organized and also facilitates better coordination with designersThe power of using phrases like, "I don't do unfinished work” to indicate that all phases of the design, including the purchasing part, are scheduled and integrated into the overall project planPosting about her furnished spaces on social media and attracting new clients from itMentioned:Jennifer Ramsey Interiors’ Website: https://jenniferramseyinteriors.com/ Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferramseyinteriors Episode 105 A Conversation with Tankersley Construction: https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d137f52d-bc81-4f53-b0d2-6c19512c73f7/EP105-Hot-Young-Designers.mp3 Client Purchasing Guide: https://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/products/client-purchasing-guide Investment Guide: https://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/products/interior-design-investment-guide Coach Matt Saia: matt.saia@sandler.com Sandler Sales System

Shaun and Rebecca are back with another Ask Us Anything. They answer your questions about marketing, photography, vendors, building and organizing a sample library, managing projects, using tools to help keep your work organized, growing your business, and much more!In this episode, they discuss:Shaun and Rebecca’s plans for the upcoming High Point MarketThe best marketing strategies for interior designers starting out — social media, SEO, networking, consistency, etcHow did Shaun and Rebecca start and grow their interior design businesses without a coach or mentorTips for transitioning from buying retail for projects to developing vendor relationships and shopping wholesaleFavorite vendors with a variety of products at different price points for interior designersHow much to invest in your first photo shoot for your website and portfolio, especially when working with a limited client budgetIs working with someone on website strategy a good investment for services like configuring Google Analytics, conducting an audit, and providing reportsIs joining a Chamber of Commerce beneficial for business expansionTips and strategies for building a sample library and keeping it fresh and stockedUsing tools like Harvest and Studio Designer to track time and invoice clientsWhat to do or say when a client wants to be super involved or compromises the designTaking business loans to grow your businessMentioned:Ep 83 Acquiring Clients without InstagramE121 Evan Larkin, SEO for Interior DesignersMay Hottie Hangouthttps://www.patreon.com/posts/may-hottie-104017706?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkRP Rue Featurehttps://ruemag.com/home-tour-2/grandmas-house-gets-a-refresh-how-studio-plumb-updated-a-cherished-family-home-in-east-sacramentoE111 For The Newbies - Things we wish we knew when we startedE001 Meet the Hot Young DesignersPatreon Episode: You’re not making money unless you’re buying wholesalehttps://www.patreon.com/posts/youre-not-making-97208553?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkClient Purchasing Guidehttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/products/client-purchasing-guideJoin design community groups like:NKBAhttps://nkba.org/NARIhttps://www.nari.org/IDS

Why do interior designers need SEO? Why is SEO the key to keeping your interior design business ranking on Google? SEO expert Evan Larkin explains why SEO is so important for your business’s online presence and gives a live SEO audit of Shaun’s website. Listen in to Evan’s observations on Shaun’s website, Wrensted Interiors, and learn what to fix on your own website.In this episode, they discuss:SEO audit of Shaun’s website: https://wrenstedinteriors.com/ Best platforms for website creation for designersThe importance of website accessibility and ADA compliance for SEOMistakes that hurt your SEOImportant on-site SEO elements like meta titles, descriptions, and headersImportance of image optimization for SEO and the best practices that should be followedWhat should be the word count and keyword usage in the website content How to utilize Pinterest to rank up your websiteDo designers need blogs and alternatives to blogsSEO techniques for small businesses — website optimization, link building, using search console, etcThe importance of optimizing your profiles and reviews on platforms like Google, Facebook, Yelp, etcWays to optimize a website and service pages for SEO and the user experienceUsing location-specific details in content to improve SEO and connect with local audiencesThe value of local traffic versus national traffic for small businessesHow much SEO work can designers do themselves versus needing help from an agencyThe process for doing an SEO audit with North County DigitalMentioned:HYDC Pinterest Masterclasshttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/products/pinterest-for-interior-designers-masterclassListen back to our Pinterest episode with Leah Reinerthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-young-designers-club-interior-design-business-podcast/id1505427626?i=1000637166871Google Search Consolehttps://search.google.com/search-console/aboutGoogle Business Profilehttps://www.google.com/business/North County Digital Website: https://www.northcountydigital.com/Follow North County Digital on Ig: https://www.instagram.com/northcountydigitalmarketing/Follow Evan on Ig: https://www.instagram.com/evanslarkin/Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club Instagram

The design industry can be exciting to explore, but it's not always easy to break into. If you're looking to shift careers and work in interior design, Shaun and Rebecca have some valuable advice for you. They talk about the skills from your previous job that will add value to your design career, the challenges career-shifters face when switching into the design industry, and share tips that will help you break into the new field.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun discuss:The challenges of switching careers in interior designTips and strategies for someone transitioning from another career into interior design Transferable skills someone can bring from another career that offers value in interior designChallenges entrepreneurs face when switching industriesThe need for entrepreneurs to set aside their ego to have a successful learning experience when switching industriesChallenges designers face in taking on inexperienced interns or employeesHow can career changers demonstrate value beyond just design skills when pursuing opportunities in interior designThe challenges of transitioning from DIY home projects to working professionally in the design industryWhat designers look for when it comes to hiring and training new employeesWhat does it take to find the right fit when switching to a new industry like interior designOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionMoe's just released their new Tailored & Timeless Collection. Create an accout at https://moeshomecollection.com/hydc

Today’s guest, Ashley Ausland, shares her journey of growing her design business over the last few years while dealing with personal hardships—divorce, cancer, and becoming a single mother of four kids. She discusses the lessons she learned about business management, client relationships, and creating homes with soul and timeless appeal.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Ashley Ausland to discuss:Ashley’s journey of starting her business from her garage with no employees to now having a team of 4Ashley’s struggles and healing process of going through divorce and cancer and learning the importance of boundaries, self-care, and forgivenessGrowing her design projects from small remodels to ground-up constructionsVetting clients carefully by looking for red flags like clients who want to change contractsHow Ashley balances her business with caring for her four kids as a single momAshley’s struggles with delegating design work and maintaining creative control over projectsIncorporating vintage elements and old designs into new homesPreserving historical details in home renovationsFocusing on durability and value over trendsAshley’s billing model and the challenges she faces while time trackingThe challenges designers face with sharing their work and receiving feedbackMentioned:Ausland Interiors Website: https://www.auslandinteriors.com/ Ashley Ausland on Ig: https://www.instagram.com/auslandinteriors/ Ausland Interiors on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/auslandinteriors/  Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionMoe's just released their new Tailored & Timeless Collection. Create an accout at https://moeshomecollection.com/hydc

Shaun and Rebecca discuss the issues around designers’ rights to their work. They talk about a recent situation where a company used photos of designer Natalie Myers’s work without her permission and modified the pictures a little with the help of AI. They discuss this issue, how having no rights over the pictures of their work is not fair to designers, and finding a fair solution to this issue.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun discuss:How designers are often overlooked for bringing food and maintaining morale on job sites while photographers profit off photos without the designer’s consentThe unauthorized brand use of photos of a designer’s workThe Natalie Meyer situation where a company used her photos without permissionPhotographer-designer relationships The complexity of photo licensing contracts and how the system favors photographers over designersThe lack of control designers have over photos of their own workHow designers can have more control over their workFinding a fair way for photographers and designers to share rights and paymentsPhotographers can share licensing rights and revenue with designers when companies use photos of their designsMentioned:Episode 107: Just Stop Vi: Judgement Dayhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-young-designers-club-interior-design-business-podcast/id1505427626?i=1000637922368Natalie Meyer's IG Posthttps://www.instagram.com/p/C32pAPzrOzF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Ethnik Living's Apologyhttps://www.instagram.com/p/C34kSOztN2I/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The movie 'The Congress' with Robin Wright has some parallels to what we're talking about: The Congress - Prime VideoOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionMoe's just released their new Tailored & Timeless Collection. Create an accout at https://moeshomecollection.com/hydc

Will Brown of Will Brown Interiors believes that interior design should be more than just aesthetics — it should also support clients’ well-being and energy flow within a space. In this episode, Will shares how he uses ancient Feng Shui principles to help clients optimize the flow of energy in their homes.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Will Brown to discuss:Will’s career transition from corporate graphic design to interior designWill’s experience working at Hallmark and how it influenced his careerHow Will got introduced and certified in Feng Shui principles How Will’s clients receive the idea of Feng Shui Will’s process for integrating Feng Shui into his interior design process and consultationsSome examples of Feng Shui practices that Will suggests for clients Recommendation of Mindful Homes by Anjie Cho as a guide for enhancing the main areas of a homeHow Will tailors his Feng Shui solutions based on a client’s individual needs, interests, and comfort levelWill’s way of helping clients understand and optimize the flow of energy in their homes through Feng ShuiClearing misconceptions about Feng Shui Bringing in an ad hoc team based on project needs and how it helps him stay focused on his role as the creative directorAbout the Midwest Design & Furniture Fair — Date, venue, competitions that are going to happen there, and more!Mentioned:The Mindful Design Feng Shui School New York: Mindful Design Feng Shui SchoolWill’s website: Will Brown InteriorsWill’s Instagram: @willbrowninteriors on Instagram Using a Bagua Map for your home: How to Use a Bagua Map: Simple Steps for Powerful Change | LoveToKnowMindful Homes by Anjie Cho: https://amzn.to/3vMEeIN Midwest Design & Furniture Fair: Midwest Design and Furniture FairOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionMoe's just released

As a designer, do you prefer working on kitchens or bathrooms? Are kitchens and bathrooms worth the effort in terms of payoff? Doing kitchens and bathrooms requires a lot of work but doesn’t always result in big profits. Shaun and Rebecca are here to discuss tips and strategies for making smaller projects like kitchens and bathrooms more profitable.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun discuss:Challenges and benefits of working within the limitations of kitchen and bathroom spacesDifficulty in finding a contractor who only does bathroom or kitchenThe crucial role contractors play in referralsWays to make kitchen and bathrooms more profitable and enjoyableDoing minimum expenditures on kitchen and bathroom to guarantee more revenueNot adding things that you don’t have any markup onHow can designers guarantee more revenue through minimum purchasing requirementsHow some contractors undermine design decisions by suggesting cheaper alternativesImportance of bringing up material purchases early in the project Challenges of photographing home renovation projects that include NDAsCobbled together approach for making money in kitchen designThe risks and rewards of custom cabinetryBuying products directly from manufacturers and selling them without a third-partyValue of offering design-only services for self-managed clientsMentioned:Client Purchasing Guidehttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/products/client-purchasing-guideCheck out Episode 82 with Linda Haysletthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-young-designers-club-interior-design-business-podcast/id1505427626?i=1000595637345Patreon Episode - Can kitchens and bathrooms be profitable?https://www.patreon.com/posts/design-to-go-how-99023498?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_linkOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionSave an extra 10% off your purchase using code HYDC10 at checkout. https://moeshomecollection.comHigh...

Today’s guest, Garrison Hullinger, overcame adversity to build a thriving design business from the ground up. One of his secrets? Establishing the right process that allows for maximum productivity and profit.Garrison discusses his processes — from the structure of his design team to qualifying clients, delegating tasks, establishing design pillars and vision statements for each project, and more. He shows how creativity and profits can thrive with the right planning structures in place.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Garrison Hullinger to discuss:Garrison’s career path and how he got into interior designHow Garrison started his business without technical design skillsHow neighborhood requests turned into his first design projectsThe structure of Garrison’s design team and how the roles are organizedHow Garrison communicates vision and guidance to his design teamWorking during an economic downturn and seeing it as an opportunity for growthThe importance of delivering outcomes and ROIHow Garrison and his team balance creative ideas with practical constraintsGarrison’s process of qualifying prospectsGarrison’s experience breaking into multifamily projectsGarrison’s process for client meetings and project reviewsThe importance of finding collaborators for successful projectsMentioned:Design Biz Retreat: Design Biz RetreatGarrison on Instagram: Studio Garrison (@studiogarrisoninc) on InstagramGarrison’s website: Garrison Hullinger Interior DesignOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionSave an extra 10% off your purchase using code HYDC10 at checkout. https://moeshomecollection.com

Opening an online shop seems like an exciting way to expand your business, but it is a major undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. Shaun and Rebecca are launching their new e-commerce shop and share the good, the bad, and the ugly of what it really takes to launch a fully robust e-commerce shop.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun discuss:Shaun and Rebecca’s experience launching a new e-commerce shopShaun and Rebecca’s experience on Payhip and why they are moving to ShopifyShaun’s experience transitioning his email newsletter to KlaviyoThe challenges they faced moving to Shopify – rebranding their website, redesigning products, etcInvesting in quality product photography to showcase your brand aestheticProduct descriptions and the importance of effective writing in conveying product features like texture, color, size, etcFactors to consider like pricing, content, and inventory management from the beginningSome design sales and marketing strategiesHow working with coach Ashton from The Awakening helped them with their e-commerce businessAlternatives to a full e-commerce site like using affiliate linksMentioned:shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.comThe Awakening Website: https://myawakening.co/Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Pinterest MasterclassPinterest is not just for inspiration anymore. It can actually be used strategically to gain new clients! Learn more about our Pinterest for Interior Designers Masterclass at: shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com

What tools and apps can help me with time tracking and invoicing? How do I organize my notes and stay organized? Is an iPad worth it for work? How can it be used effectively? Tune in as we share some of our tried-and-true methods for staying organized and productive. With some small adjustments to your processes, these small methods can make a big difference for your business. Just don't call them hacks!In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun discuss:Tools and apps that can help with time tracking – Harvest app, GoodNotes Tips for using technology effectively during meetingsValue of iPads for workUsing Canvas to take measurements during home consultationsHow to determine if a remodel makes financial senseUseful tools for site visits and consultationsStrategies for note-taking, file sharing, and collaborating on projects remotelyWhen should a contractor be brought in – during initial consultations or after the design processGetting early cost estimates and feasibility studies from contractors before fully developing design plansHow to work with clients to establish a realistic budget and avoid cost overrunsMentioned:Amazon Salad Bar: https://amzn.to/3SnWeAOHarvest App: Time Tracking Software With Invoicing | HarvestGood Notes app: Goodnotes | Notes Reimagined | Note-Taking AppCanvas app for home measurements: The easiest way to get as-builts | CanvasTankersley Construction Episode: ‎Hot Young Designers Club 105: A Conversation with Tankersley ConstructionCost vs. value remodeling guide: Cost vs. Value 2023 | NationalRebecca’s Upwork Freelancer for Chief Architect: https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~012a205720d9c6bb42Our links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:High Point Markethttps://highpointmarket.org/registerhydcMoe's Home CollectionSave an extra 10% off your purchase...

Do you want to take your interior design business to the next level? High Point Market can be the boost you need to take things to the next level. Today’s guest, Stacy Garcia, has built an impressive career over 25 years in the design industry. She shares how instrumental High Point Market has been in fueling the success of her businesses, Stacy Garcia Design Studio and textile company LebaTex.In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Stacy Garcia to discuss:Stacy’s career journey from textile design to residential designHow Stacy started her business with limited resourcesForecasting trends through groups like Color Marketing Group, Patti Carpenter, Nancy Fire and knowing what will work in the mass marketThe role of High Point Market in product development, seeing trends emerge before they hit retailHow design trends, colors and consumer tastes have changed over the yearsThe way trends, creativity, and different designers/creatives influence each otherThe importance of industry connections, education and collaboration with other creativesHow different designers influence each other’s work Encouragement to attend conferences and panels at High Point Market to learn from expertsMentioned:Register for High Point Market: Register - High Point Furniture MarketStacy's Textile Company: LebaTexStacy's Website: Stacy GarciaOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Moe's Home CollectionSave an extra 10% off your purchase using code HYDC10 at checkout. https://moeshomecollection.com

Today, we go back on the journey of where we started and discuss the mistakes we made and the lessons we learned. We share everything we wished we knew when we started — from basic bookkeeping and accounting to choosing the right software, tools, and infrastructure we wish we implemented sooner.In this episode, we discuss:Shaun and Rebecca are hosting the KBIS Panel Shaun and Rebecca’s early days in business and the journey they’ve been on sinceTheir toolbox when they launched and how they got their first clientsProjects from their first year taking on clients — their charges, the very basic tools and processes they used Mistakes they made – no business structure, setting unrealistic rates, unclear project scopes, etcLessons on bookkeeping software options, choosing the right accounting partner and proper business banking/accountsTips for newbies just starting out, as well as those looking to take their business to the next levelDesigners often delete old projects and content from their websites as their style and clientele evolve — use Wayback Machine to track changesThings to do if you have no portfolio — create mood boards, design plans, or spec sheets to show your design skillsMentioned:KBIS Panelhttps://kbis.com/nextstage/#lighten-up-the-humorous-side-of-designJoin our Patreon for more communityhttps://www.patreon.com/hydcWayback Machine website time capsulehttps://web.archive.org/Heidi Caillier on the Business of Home Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-of-home-podcast/id1340460508?i=1000637795675Furnishing Budget Calculatorhttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/b/tmhwIInvestment Guidehttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/b/t8nJLOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:High Point Markethttps://highpointmarket.org/registerhydcMoe's Home CollectionSave an extra 10% off your purchase using code...

What is your approach to designing projects? Today’s guest, Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design, shares his unique narrative-based approach to design. By asking the clients questions like “What is the story you want to tell with this house?” Dan helps them pull out their vision and desires beyond just aesthetics. He then works to design a space that brings that narrative to life. In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Dan Mazzarini to discuss:Dan’s background and how he got into interior designDan’s experience launching brands like Michael Kors Dan’s narrative approach to design — asking clients the story they want to tell with the houseHow Dan and his team approach residential vs hospitality clients Three things he considers when looking at potential projects — Paid, Promote, PrideDan’s way of structuring his billing and the models that work best for himDan’s team structure and how he runs a geographically dispersed teamBringing on a dedicated procurement person to the team and how it has impacted the roles and engagement of his design teamThe importance of designers understanding how products are madeEstablishing a vision for projects through visual boards and narrativesChallenges of forecasting workload and balancing talentNetworking and finding new clients through social media and in-person eventsMentioned:BHDM Design WebsiteDan Mazzarini (@danmazzarini) on InstagramBHDM Design (@bhdmdesign) on InstagramARCHIVE (@archivebydanmazzarini) on InstagramFor more on networking with a purpose, check out Episode 99 with Ali Faulker:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-young-designers-club-interior-design-business-podcast/id1505427626?i=1000626439906Getting new leads through Pinterest: Pinterest for Interior Designers MasterclassOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Pinterest MasterclassPinterest is...

As we enter 2024, there are some things that we do not wish to bring with us into this year, and we want to make some changes in our lives and businesses. Today, we share our no-more list for 2024 and discuss the 6 changes (3 from each of us) we want to make in our businesses. Some of these changes will resonate with you, Hotties, and your businesses.In this episode, we discuss:Shaun and Rebecca are hosting a panel on The Humorous Side of Design in Las VegasRebecca is going to be more discretionary about full-service clientsShaun wants to be more selective about half-baked decorating projectsShaun's experience with clients who wanted decorating help but not full designThe challenges of managing client expectations The importance of having clear and defined goals in projectsRebecca's struggle with monthly planning and trackingThe fear of projects never feeling complete in consulting-only workRebecca's goal to put more effort into her design business, Happy HourShaun's will pay closer attention to initial client meetingsRebecca is no longer going to be afraid of selling her services and getting beyond her fear of self-promotionThe importance of paying attention to warning signs during discovery callsShaun wants to get back to regularly posting content on Instagram and PinterestMentioned:Rebecca will be spending more time on Happy Hourhttps://www.itshappyhour.co/Shaun’s demotivated to spend time in Instagram and Pinteresthttps://shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com/b/W8rXPOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca’s Instagram Shaun’s InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon Design Resources - Check out our shopMentioned in this episode:Pinterest MasterclassPinterest is not just for inspiration anymore. It can actually be used strategically to gain new clients! Learn more about our Pinterest for Interior Designers Masterclass at: shop.hotyoungdesignersclub.com