Page 19 – LuAnn Nigara

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Check out Kravet Inc. and use our code AWDB10 for 10% on any order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim

Eileen Hahn’s Website

04-23-202408-15-2024

977: Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner

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1:7:04

977: Katie Ryan Pluer: Strategies for Taking on a Business Partner

Today With Katie Ryan Pluer

Today with Katie Ryan Pluer we are discussing what it takes to build a successful business partnership in the interior design industry. Katie brings a wealth of experience in business development, marketing, and advertising — along with a successful track record of buying and selling businesses. She has a keen understanding of what it takes to create a profitable business, and has spent the past few years getting settled in the interior design industry as Vice President of Natasa Jones Interiors in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

If you have a partner or are considering one, or if you are looking to scale your interior design business anytime soon, Katie is here to share valuable insights. We are getting into the nitty gritty of partnership — from evaluating the business and legalities to personalities, percentages, and profitability.

Pick It Apart:

[1:11] Katie shares how she and Natasa met while working together more than a decade ago, how they realized they were a good fit for partnership, and how they began working together again in their current roles.

[5:52] Katie discusses how she officially approached Natasha about becoming partners and the process of having the business evaluated and buying in.

[14:40] LuAnn asks Katie what business owners need to think about before they get their business evaluated for sale or partnership.

[29:03] Katie outlines how she and Natasha negotiated the terms of their partnership, including ownership percentages, legalities, and the importance of open and honest conversation.

[41:46] Katie emphasizes the value of tracking both revenue streams and profit margins.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie Ryan Pluer’s Ah-Ha Moments

“We’re kind of like a Venn diagram. Like, I have my little part, she has a little part. And then we intersect. And the stuff that we intersect—we’re just like on the same page. But we’re also not afraid to challenge each other.” – Katie Ryan Pluer “If you’re running your business, you should pay yourself.” – Katie Ryan Pluer “If you are considering a potential partnership with someone, and before you make the purchase, and the final deal, if you can’t have open and honest conversation, then…how the heck do you think you’re going to have it when you both have skin in the game?” – LuAnn Nigara “Sometimes there’s some ego in ownership and creating your own business. And if you’re willing to put that ego aside and bring someone in that can help grow your business—grow it together—it’s really worth it…If you find the right person that understands and has as much love for it as you do, I think it’ll be a good fit. – Katie Ryan Pluer

More About Katie Ryan Pluer

Katie Ryan Pluer holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of WI-Madison. Katie is an entrepreneur, and currently is a Partner & Vice President at Natasa Jones Interiors. Her expertise is in business development, marketing, and advertising. Over her 20-year professional career, Katie has used her skills to promote and grow business across several industries including interior design, finance, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. She has bought and successfully sold several businesses including (4) uBreakiFix stores and Sign Gypsies MKE.

Katie has had the honor and privilege of serving on the development committee for Nia Imani, the Board of Woman for MACC and as the Co-Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Council at Lueder Financial Group of Northwestern Mutual. She has a passion for service and a love for Milwaukee. Katie was raised in a culture of caring for those in need, and volunteering as a way to make an impact on the community.

Connect with Katie Ryan Pluer

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 570: Natasa Jones: How to Maximize the ROI on Any Webinar, Course or Conference

AWDB 646: Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd: Building a Friendship and An Interior Design Partnership

AWDB 672: Flash Back Friday: Tiffannie White, The Nappy Bohemian: Your “Only” and Lessons From a New Interior Design Business

AWDB 857: Power Talk Friday: Shannon Lopez: The ERC Program – Do NOT Skip This Episode!

AWDB 876: Natasa Jones: Making Bold Moves to Achieve Big Results

AWDB 919: Window Treatment Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: How to Sell Window Treatments in Your Full Service Interior Design Projects

04-19-202410-18-2024

976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away?

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976: On Air Strategy Sessions: Is a Disconnect Causing Your Ideal Clients to Walk Away?

Today With Melissa Fields

Get ready for Live, On-Air Strategy Sessions on the A Well Designed Business podcast! In this new format, I’ll be solving real business problems with designers like you, in real-time. Sometimes, it’s hard to see what’s right in front of us. That’s why I rely on my own mentors and consultants to provide a fresh perspective. And now, I’m offering the same to you!

Meet today’s guest, Melissa Fields, founder of Shades of Gray Design Studio in San Antonio, TX. Melissa’s biggest challenge is getting and retaining high-end clients. She want to elevate my business and work with clients who understand the value of investing in interior design. Despite having systems, processes, professional photography, and pricing that reflects her value, Melissa is struggling to attract her ideal clients, and that’s where I come in!

During this strategy session, we’ll dive deep and uncover what’s holding Melissa back from achieving her goals. Tune in for insights, actionable tips, and real solutions to real problems.

More About Melissa Fields

Shades of Gray Design Studio is a boutique interior design studio based in San Antonio, Texas. It was started in 2018 shortly after Melissa Fields, the Founder and CEO, retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service.

A retired Air Force officer turned interior designer, took her side hustle and deep passion for all things beautiful and developed it into a business. Melissa wanted to create amazing spaces for people who were going to stay in their homes long term and enjoy the investment they put into their space.

She shifted her focus towards designing residential spaces. Although not formally trained, she is a passionate creative who not only has an eye for design but firmly believes and understands that the details matter. Melissa also knows the power of beautiful and intentional design to truly transform people on a mind, body, and soul level. Because Melissa is so obsessed with the details and a high level of quality, she wanted to have a solid foundation and obtained a certification in residential interior design through the New York Institute of Art and Design.

Shades of Gray Design Studio believes in creating not just beautiful, functional spaces but telling the story about the humans that reside there. We are all unique and that’s what makes us so special. Our homes should reflect that. Melissa loves using color, texture, and boldness in her designs. She strives to incorporate a modern, contemporary feel while blending luxury and comfort…making it truly one-of-a-kind. It’s all about elevating the living space and empowering her clients with the knowledge that they are worthy of being surrounded by beauty.

Connect with Melissa Fields

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB 915: Power Talk Friday: Masha Koyen: 7 Mistakes Interior Designers Make on Their Website Messaging

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

What Would Lu Do?

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 859: Power Talk Friday: Robyn White: Using Your Website to Market to the Luxury Interior Design Client

AWDB 574: Power Talk Friday: Deb Mitchell: Attract the Right Clients With Stand-Out Copy

WTFP 167: Nicole Heymer: How to Find and Highlight Why Someone Should Buy From You

AWDB 125: Nicole Heymer- How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!!

AWDB 317: Nicole Heymer: 6 Keys to Planning A Website That Makes Things Happen

AWDB 466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

04-16-202408-15-2024

975: Joyful Abundance: Thriving in Business with a Positive Mindset

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0:58:37

975: Joyful Abundance: Thriving in Business with a Positive Mindset

Today With Jennifer Davis

Today on A Well-Designed Business I’m with Jennifer Davis, the founder of Davis Interiors, a boutique design firm based in Minneapolis. Jennifer’s story is proof that intention, manifestation, and a positive mindset can lead to the life and business of our dreams.

In this episode, we discuss Jennifer’s strategies and beliefs that have helped her create a joyful client experience and a successful career. From setting intentions and aligning your actions with your goals to overcoming impostor syndrome and cultivating an abundance mindset, Jennifer offers practical tips and powerful insights.

Pick It Apart:

[1:21] Jennifer introduces her business philosophy that the process should be just as joyful as the finished product, detailing aspects of her process that reflect this.

[6:42] LuAnn and Jennifer discuss technology platforms and automations they use to help their systems and processes run smoothly.

[14:45] Jennifer talks about the power of intention and how it works for her.

[17:46] LuAnn shares a story about manifesting her dream home.

[29:00] Jennifer brings up imposter syndrome and the role it plays in the interior design industry and how meditation can be a helpful tool to overcome this.

[44:48] Jennifer and LuAnn discuss the power of taking five minutes to slow down and clear your mind.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Davis’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I want the journey that you go through to get from start to finish to be as joyful as the joy you feel at the end of the project when you’re in your new space.” – Jennifer Davis

“I think you just have to really believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you and find good mentors and a good design community to be a part of. And then when you set the intentions, you can truly believe that you’re worthy of all these things happening.” – Jennifer Davis

“How we carry ourselves through our business relates, and comes back to us, in our personal life.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Davis

Jennifer started her career journey in the furniture industry, where she got a taste for sales. Transitioning to an interior design studio, she started as a design assistant and swiftly advanced to a managerial position, showcasing her leadership abilities. Jennifer successfully navigated distribution management and marketing roles for a well-known national furniture retailer based in Minneapolis before leaving to raise her children.

While at home with her children, it wasn’t long before friends began soliciting her assistance with their own homes. Balancing her roles as a mother and entrepreneur, she cultivated her client base from a part-time endeavor which quickly grew into a full fledged interior design studio. Jennifer is a firm believer in the law of attraction, maintaining that our attitudes significantly influence the outcomes we experience in life.

Jennifer operates a boutique interior design firm headquartered in Minneapolis, catering to clients nationwide. Her approach to each project revolves around fostering a client experience founded on clear communication, refined processes, swift timelines, and meaningful relationships. Davis Interiors lives by the motto “We want the process to create as much joy as the finished product”.

Connect with Jennifer Davis

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Roxie Nafousi book – Manifest

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Rebecca Hay’s episode with LuAnn

Inspired Kitchens and Baths

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

AWDB #895: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Millionaire Mindset for Interior Designers

AWDB #935: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

AWDB 974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB 972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing

04-12-202401-27-2025

974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

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974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

Today With Katie McDonald

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m excited to welcome back Katie McDonald, certified holistic health coach and instructor at b.nourished. As entrepreneurs, we do have a tendency to put ourselves on the backburner, focusing our time and attention on the needs of the business. But if we’re not creating something sustainable—if we’re heading toward burnout, are we really creating well-designed businesses? It can feel as if we need to justify rest, justify taking time for ourselves, Katie’s take is that we need to view taking care of ourselves in a whole new light—and today she and I are diving deep into the philosophical questions of creativity, well-being, and the way we are intertwined with the business.

Pick It Apart:

[0:02] Katie discusses how our well-being is interwoven into the business—and why taking care of ourselves isn’t a luxury.

[5:47] LuAnn and Katie unpack the guilt entrepreneurs often feel for taking free time to rest and reset.

[12:13] Katie talks about how creativity requires rest, stillness, and space.

[17:23] LuAnn and Katie talk about what rest might look like for different people (and why that’s okay).

[29:10] Katie offers practical places to start when committing to self-care.

[38:58] Katie and LuAnn reflect on the business benefits of taking care of ourselves.

LuAnn Nigara and Katie McDonald’s Ah-Ha Moments

“The only thing that will create change is our commitment to change—our willingness to look ourselves in the eyes, look at our hear, and say, ‘Something doesn’t feel right.’” -Katie

“We’re always thinking about the future or the next big thing for our business. But in our personal lives, we’re willing to accept mediocrity.” -Katie

“Our well-being is our fuel—the engine for our business.” -LuAnn

More About Katie McDonald

Over a decade ago, the demands of Katie McDonald’s corporate career occupied her every waking moment. She was left feeling depleted and depressed—suffering from spiraling mental and physical health crises that threatened her life.

Left with no choice but to transform her body-mind relationship, Katie abandoned her corporate job and finally started applying her knowledge of self-care, alternative health, and plant-based nutrition.

Since then, Katie has been on a revitalizing journey of lifelong self-care.

Fully recovered from years of self-neglect, Katie now helps fellow doers embrace self-care so they can do more and be more while leading healthier, more intentional, and more nourished lives.

Katie leads with tough love to inspire, empower, and challenge audiences. She dispels the destructive myth that self-care is an obstacle to productivity and teaches that self-care is, in fact, a tool to create a more powerful and impactful legacy.

Connect with Katie McDonald

Speaking Site

Coaching Site and Link to Schedule a Complimentary 30 Minute Self-Care Strategy Session

Link to Bnourished Planner 15% discount code for planners LUANN

Offers from Katie:

A 15% discount off the bnourished quarterly planner using code LUANN
Access to my curated resource guide here
Download the Whole life assessment here

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

#881 Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Shows Mentioned:

#968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design

04-09-202408-08-2024

973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

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0:55:51

973: Jamie Gasparovic: How Investing In Your Business Can Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

Today With Jamie Gasparovic

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Jamie Gasparovic, Founder and Principal Designer of Studio Gaspo, a boutique full-service interior design firm. Have you ever had imposter syndrome? Join the club. Jamie has a little secret to combating imposter syndrome, and that is to invest in your business. Jamie has spent thousands in investments for her business. Six figures in the last year, to be more specific. Before you drop your jaw, listen in to hear all of the value and advice Jamie has to give on investing in yourself

Pick It Apart:

[11:51] Jamie explains how investing in your business can combat imposter syndrome.

[17:35] Jamie is proactive in preventing imposter syndrome, which always seems to come up, by making consistent investments.

[22:28] Jamie shares her takeaways from Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard.

[27:16] Benefitting from just being in the room at an event and making connections.

[34:20] Jamie shares the tangible things she has learned from the programs/courses she has invested in.

[42:35] How Jamie decides what kind of investments to make.

[46:24] Jamie’s advice for those who are nervous about making that “big investment.”

LuAnn Nigara and Jamie Gasparovic’s Ah-Ha Moments

“When designers ask me if an investment I made was worth it and I say it is. I have a hard time regretting anything because I have a takeaway from everything I have invested in.” – Jamie Gasparovic

“Hearing something in business that you are already familiar with can hit differently when someone else explains it and presents it differently.” – Jamie Gasparovic

More About Jamie Gasparovic

Jamie Gasparovic is the dynamic Founder and Principal Designer behind her boutique full-service interior design firm, Studio Gaspo. Recently, her moody modern aesthetic has been celebrated by Forbes, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, and Apartment Therapy. With close to a decade of expertise in luxury, large-scale construction ranging from new builds to full-scope renovations, Jamie has created a powerful name for herself in Central Florida. Her robust client list includes professional athletes, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 executives and busy professionals. Today, she frequently partners with prominent builders and architects to design turnkey properties from floor plans to furnishings.

Connect with Jamie Gasparovic

LuAnn University – Registration is now OPEN for the Winter 2024 semester!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

WCAA 2024 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarships

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #592 Power Talk Friday: Kimberly Merlitti: Profitable Firms Build Estimates Before They Sign The Contract

AWDB #660 Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

AWDB #709 Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business

AWDB #759 Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Discover Your Goldmine and Unleash Your Marketing

AWDB #786 Meredith Huck: From Corporate to Interior Design Business: 3 Insights to Succeed

04-05-202408-09-2024

972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing

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1:1:40

972: Power Talk Friday: Lesley Myrick: Profit Insiders: How Interior Designers Can Leverage Local Marketing

Today With Lesley Myrick:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Sponsored Show, I am so happy to welcome back Lesley Myrick of Profit Insiders.

Now, we all know that local business is the backbone of interior design. And yet, our focus often falls primarily or solely on online marketing. But local networking and marketing offer a lot of potential—if you know how to take advantage of opportunities (and measure your success).

Lesley knows that local marketing is about more than joining BNI or your run-of-the-mill networking group. While those organizations can certainly be valuable to your business, Lesley knows that the best way to land local clients is simply by getting out there and meeting people, wherever you might be.

Today, she shares how she makes this work for her (and what you can do to start taking advantage of local opportunities).

Pick It Apart

[5:39] Lesley shares why local marketing is so valuable for interior designers—even more so than for other businesses.

[12:50] LuAnn reflects on the importance of referrals (and why we need to focus on expanding our network).

[23:40] Lesley and LuAnn talk about the value of an elevator pitch, and how to do it the right way.

[33:48] Lesley shares other important local networking opportunities you can put into action for your business (and how to measure your success).

[50:01] Lesley breaks down how Profit Insiders works and how to apply to join.

LuAnn Nigara and Lesley Myrick’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I understand as an introvert myself, it can be uncomfortable—the local marketing side of it. It’s easy to hide behind a computer and do social media posts or spiff up your website and update your portfolio, and I’m not discounting the importance of those things. But local marketing is so important because this is a business and an industry built on relationships.” -Lesley

“We often engage in a behavior unconsciously in our own lives that we then don’t apply to our businesses. Would you find a hairdresser off Google? Probably not. You would probably ask people…and yet we think that’s what’s going to happen for our business.” -LuAnn

More About Lesley Myrick

Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love.

Connect with Lesley Myrick

Profit Insiders Academy

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #15 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich

AWDB #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

AWDB #159 Power Talk Friday – Nancy Ganzekaufer – How To Get Confident & Clear on What You Offer

AWDB #256 Nancy Ganzekaufer- A Powerful Strategy to Attract More Clients

AWDB #389: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Interior Design Profit Formula

AWDB #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again

AWDB #766 Lesley Myrick: Offering Interior Design Without Procurement

AWDB #783: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders for Interior Designers

AWDB #841: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders For Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind

AWDB #869: Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders – How Interior Designers Can Price Themselves Right

AWDB #935 Power Talk Friday: Nancy Ganzekaufer: Profit Insiders Academy: Marketing Lessons From Taylor Swift’s Playbook

A Big Thank You to Today’s Sponsor:

Today’s show was sponsored by Nancy Ganzekaufer and her program Profit Insiders Academy.

04-02-202408-15-2024

971: Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design

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1:17:13

971: Vicente Wolf: How to Bring True Artistry into Interior Design

Today With Vicente Wolf

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I welcome design icon Vicente Wolf to the show. Vicente’s name speaks for itself, as does his reputation. With more than 50 years of experience and wide-known fame, Vicente is a true artist who undoubtedly inspires upcoming designers on a regular basis. He has a true talent for design—and it begins with understanding the artistry involved. Today, Vicente shares his insights about creativity, design, and knowing the value you bring to the table.

Pick It Apart:

[1:29] Vicente shares his journey and how he was able to produce groundbreaking designs along the way.

[12:05] Vicente and LuAnn discuss Pinterest, regurgitated design, and how hard it is for designers now to produce truly unique creative work.

[21:40] Vicente discusses his hiring process and what he looks for in junior designers.

[32:14] Vicente reflects on client needs, budget, and how to create artistry within the constraints.

[51:42] Vicente turns the tables on LuAnn and asks her take on what younger and newer designers are bringing to the industry.

LuAnn Nigara and Vicente Wolf’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Architects are respected and revered. Designers often are not—they are seen as putting frosting on a cake rather than the real value they can bring.” -Vicente

“When you run your own business, you make the rules. You can make a decision when you would love to contribute your gift to someone.” -LuAnn

“How can you break ground if you don’t trust your gut?” -Vicente

More About Vicente Wolf

As a Cuban refugee making his way to New York in his teens, Vicente became a force in the home furnishings revolution, changing the vocabulary of interior design into a sleeker, modern vision starting in the mid-1970s. Known for his high gloss white spaces, he earned the moniker “The White Knight.” Admired for his impeccable eye and unique perspective, Vicente Wolf has been at the top of the design industry for nearly 50 years. Wolf’s work has been featured in all major lists and shelter publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Luxe Interiors + Design magazine. Vicente was named to Elle Décor magazine’s inaugural list of design Titans list on their annual roster of A-List of designers in 2021. In his new book CREATIVE INTERIOR SOLUTIONS (Rizzoli, 2023), he shares the expertise he has honed over the years with project images and easy-to-digest “Lessons Learned”. A passionate traveler, Vicente’s annual jaunts to exotic destinations such as Burma, India, and Thailand provide him with a global viewpoint that he weaves into his residential and hospitality projects, which are displayed throughout the book. According to Vicente, incorporating authentic artifacts and furnishings from these places with modern décor that exude a quiet elegance, captures a sense of earthy charisma, timelessness, and soul. In 1999 Vicente opened VW Home by Vicente Wolf showroom adjacent to his design studio in Hell’s Kitchen, New York. Vicente is an international speaker, author with five book titles to his name, collector, lauded retailer and celebrated visionary. In 2012, Vicente accepted an honorary PHD in Design & Architecture from Boston Architectural College. He passionately supports God’s Love We Deliver as a Trustee.

Connect with Vicente Wolf

Creative Interior Solutions (Rizzoli, 2023)

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour 2024

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here.

To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Book Call with Duke Renders

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources Mentioned:

Power Talk Friday Tour

Creative Interior Solutions – Vicente Wolf’s book

Mydoma Studio

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #28 Andrew Suvalsky – What Are You Waiting For?

AWDB #384 Sarah Magness: Practical Strategies for Talking Budgets

AWDB #968 Overheard: Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola: How to Harness Creativity in Interior Design

03-29-202408-15-2024

970: Power Talk Friday: Ali Stein: Strategies to Acquire New Clients

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970: Power Talk Friday: Ali Stein: Strategies to Acquire New Clients

Today With Ali Stein

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. My guest today is Ali Stein, owner of Grabler Brand. This is the first time you have heard from Ali on the show, but not the first time you have heard about her on the show. Back when I had Regan Baker on, if you remember, she raved about Ali. Over seven years Ali helped grow the Regan Baker Design team from 5 to 20 employees and she helped increase their revenue by 1200%. Ali was the Director of Operations and she oversaw HR, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management, and more. Ali now has her own business, Grabler Brand, where she advises creatives as a business strategigist and operations advisor. This smart lady is joining me on the show to give tips to designers on how they can land their next clients.

Pick It Apart:

[7:55] Ali starts the conversation by explaining how to get your next client.

[8:35] Tip number one to gaining new clients.

[15:45] Why Ali thinks it’s important to cultivate authentic relationships and how to do that.

[24:20] Pushing yourself a little to make relationships, even if you are an introvert.

[36:19] Ali advises to put yourself out there and ask for help.

LuAnn Nigara and Ali Stein’s Ah-Ha Moments

“It is important to give clients that next level experience and not to rush through the process.” – Ali Stein

“When you can establish a working relationship with someone, that can be a strong engine in developing future business.” Ali Stein

“If you are an introvert, there is a way you can be in a room with 25 or 250 people and connect with two or three of them in a meaningful way.” LuAnn Nigara

More About Ali Stein

Ali Grabler Stein brings nearly 20 years of experience to Grabler Brand, a business strategy and operations advisory for the design and build industry. Early in her career Ali worked at Google and then as one of the first 50 employees at Facebook (now Meta). There she helped grow the community from 6 million to over 1 billion users during her 10 year tenure. She played various roles in User Operations, Product and Partner Management, and had the opportunity to lead both small and large teams. Ali then went in-house at Regan Baker Design, a full-service interior design and styling firm, to serve as the Director of Operations where she oversaw Human Resources, Performance Management, Finance, Business Development, Marketing, Project Management and more. She helped grow the team from five to nearly 20 employees and grew revenue significantly. At Grabler Brand her goal is to be a sounding board, ally and guide as creatives navigate their business growth and subsequent twists and turns. As someone who has managed both small and large teams, Ali has a strong sense for the inner workings of a successful business. From her industry knowledge to her experience with internal processes and marketing, Ali helps business owners and teams work towards becoming the businesses they want to be.

Connect with Ali Stein

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Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

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