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951: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: More Interior Designers Share the Value Of Using Duke Renders For Your Rendering Projects

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Today With Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown:

Today on A Well-Designed Business we are back with another Duke Renders-sponsored show. We are hearing from two more interior designers who absolutely love working with Duke Renders; Kelly O’Neil, founder of Kelly O’Neil Design and Camia Brown, founder of Camia Brown Interiors. As soon as Kelly and Camia started using Duke Renders in their projects, they never looked back. They now use them for all of their projects. They are sharing all of the benefits 3D renderings have for their businesses and why they recommend d Duke Renders to everyone.

Pick It Apart

[3:54] Camia and Kelly share why they use renderings for all of their projects.

[11:01] Camia explains how having a rendering facilitates the process.

[16:56] Fernando shares how he has even used renderings for his own visuals.

[25:10] Camia shares a specific instance where a client was not budging on a design preference and how the rendering convinced him it didn’t look right.

[26:05] Kelly and Camia share the process of working with Duke Renders.

[34:12] Last thoughts and benefits to using Duke Renders in your design projects.

LuAnn Nigara, Fernando Duque, Kelly O’Neil and Camia Brown’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Using Duke Renders for your design projects uplevels your business. It’s the next phase in technology,” – LuAnn Nigara

“When you have these high-quality renders from Duke Renders, there is this instantaneous trust because the clients can see that you saw their vision and customized it to them.” – Kelly O’Neil

“We listen to feedback from designers to make our process as structured as possible so they always know what to expect throughout their process,” Fernando Duque

More About Fernando Duque

Born in Venezuela, MBA Babson College. Serial Entrepreneur, founded more than 5 companies.

I co founded Duke Renders with my brother Enrique in March 2020 in the middle of COVID 19, since then it has been a skyrocket growth with more than 100 team members today and no outside investment.

We are a 3D Render studio based in beautiful Tulum, Mexico.

We specialize in Interior Design and Architectural photorealistic imaging.

We serve busy Interior Designers with 100% Accurate Photo-Realistic 3D Renderings of their Creative Designs.

We make You and Your Clients feel Proud, Confident and Empowered at Every Single Step of the Design Process.

I live in Tulum with my wife Mina, our newborn daughter Penelope and our doggy Lulu.

Fun Facts:

  1. I love going to the beach at 5am and do it every day!
  2. Traveled the world backpacking for 2.5 years
  3. Loves cooking Moroccan Food for his Moroccan Wife

Connect with Fernando Duque

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Houzz

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Duke Renders.

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #723: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #823: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: A Case Study For a Successful Business Plan AWDB #905: Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: Why Successful Design Firms Choose Duke Renders for Their Rendering Projects

Other Shows Mentioned:

Join us for The Power Talk Friday Tour

Duke Renders – Book Call

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950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People

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Today With Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan:

Today on A Well Designed Business, I am so happy to have our roundtable discussion with four amazing #smartladys. Leadership consultants Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan, and award-winning designers Traci Connell and Anastasia Harrison.  Both Traci and Anastasia worked with Eileen and Jennifer to improve and solidify their hiring process and it resulted in clear and successful results. They are here to share their hiring experiences, how they worked together, and offer actionable tips that you do not want to miss.

Pick It Apart:

[11:44] Anastasia explains her situation with knowing she has the wrong team members and what she did about it.

[15:15] Eileen walks us through what to do after learning the roles we need to fill and realizing the people in them don’t belong in those roles.

[19:37] Traci shares her experience with hiring designers and when she decided to reach out to Eileen and Jennifer for help.

[26:44] Jennifer shares her experience working with Traci and the pain points she had to face with the previous use of recruitment companies.

[34:54] Anastasia shares actionable steps for those having issues with hiring and team management.

[44:18] Jennifer talks about determining the accurate fit for the role you are hiring.

[47:48] Eileen provides some tools for the hiring process.

LuAnn Nigara and Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Eileen let me know that I had to take hold of and understand the positions I needed to fill before hiring the people to fill them. At that point, I had people in seats, but they weren’t necessarily sitting in the right ones,” – Anastasia Harrison

“Everybody wants to be happy in a job that they are good at. Employers want their employees to be happy in a job that they are good at, but many times they are in the wrong place,” – Eileen Hahn

“You’re not just interviewing the candidate, they are interviewing you,” – Anastasia Harrison

“It is an honor to be able to hire someone to contribute to your business,” – Jennifer Tokatyan.

More About Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan

Anastasia Harrison:

Anastasia Harrison is a rarity in the design world – she is a trained architect and an award-winning designer. Her enthusiasm for both can be seen from concept to installation, and this energy fills each of her projects. As Owner and Principal Architect at AHD&Co, Anastasia leads a creative team best known for unconventional thinking and expertise, thus providing effortless designs.

She started her career working on large infrastructure projects in the NYC metro area and worked at the original World Trade Center for nearly a decade. She then moved to Europe to do design work for brands such as Donna Karen, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Prada.  Once back in the US, her career focused on luxury residential and hospitality design, as Director of Sustainability in NYC for Gensler. Anastasia became a leader in sustainable design and offered a new standard for mindful living with speaking engagements across the nation.

In 2012, Anastasia shifted her career highlights and began working with high-profile clients on major architectural endeavors, designing legacy properties through her firm, AHD&Co. Her body of work now encompasses historic preservations, large-scale estate renovations, and new construction forever homes. Many of her clients return to her firm to seek her expertise when they secure an additional private residence or vacation home, building life-long relationships.

Anastasia lives in New Jersey with her husband and two Puggles and has three young adult daughters. One of her daughters has a rare connective tissue disorder, which led her to establish a charity for children in medical crisis, the New Jersey chapter of Savvy Giving By Design. Anastasia believes there is a greater purpose to what she does in her career.  Time and again, she has found that architecture and design can do more than just create beautiful spaces – beautiful design can bring great joy and great respite into the home.

Traci Connell:

Since founding her eponymous firm, award-winning designer Traci Connell is an expert in delivering tailored interiors that are as luxurious as they are livable. With her keen eye for design, space planning and art, Connell brings understated glamour and elegance to a vast range of high-end residential interiors, commercial projects, vacation homes and custom site-specific requests. Her inspiration is attained from her explorations of the world of design, travel, art, nature and culture.

With a renewed appreciation for transforming homes into an ease of escape, Connell breaks through predictability with art curation, cutting edge technologies and custom artisan talents, weaving in special, unexpected elements into every design project. As one of the most trusted design firms in Dallas, she delivers an expertly perfected, streamlined system of service that simplifies and organizes the design process. Her impeccable eye for space planning and design, combined with the team’s in-depth knowledge of project management, proves invaluable for clients ranging from busy young families to empty nesters and those seeking vacation homes.

Connell’s philanthropic work within the Dallas design community includes the Dwell with Dignity “Thrift Studio” fundraiser, a design project aimed to raise money to combat homelessness in the city of Dallas and surrounding areas. She is currently serving on the ASID Texas Community Board.

Traci Connell Interiors has proudly been named a Kips Bay Decorator Show House Designer of 2021,  D Home Best Designer in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and has been included on the Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List in 2018, 2020 and 2021. The firm’s work has been recognized in national and regional media publications including Luxe Interiors + Design, Wall Street Journal, Traditional Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, D Home and AD Pro among many more.

Eileen Hahn:

Eileen Hahn is a leadership consultant who works with firms like Anheuser-Busch, Ericson Worldwide, General Motors, Legoland, San Diego Padres, and interior design firms, as well as smaller entrepreneurial firms. She teaches leaders in these organizations how to hire and lead exceptional employees who bring fire and energy to their work, achieve high levels of performance, and generate financial results. Eileen’s work has improved productivity, profitability, and employee work passion. It has also brought the employees joy, peace, purpose, and prosperity.

Jennifer Tokatyan:

Jennifer Tokatyan is a leadership consultant and a consulting partner with Eileen B Hahn. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in small and large organizations across mul5ple industries in public, private and nonprofit sectors. She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more. Jennifer provides leadership, talent optimization, organizational development, strategic HR consulting and coaching to organizations seeking to grow their people and business, deliver on their brand promise, create the culture and environment where its people flourish and achieve exceptional results. She has several ac5ve interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October, 2022

Connect with Anastasia Harrison, Traci Connell, Eileen Hahn and Jennifer Tokatyan

Anastasia Harrison’s Website

Traci Connell’s Website

Eileen Hahn’s Website

Jennifer Tokatyan’s Website

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

#363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

#525: Traci Connell: Take Your Business from Setback to Success

#554: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Buy Wholesale for Profit

#589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million

#851: Power Talk Friday: Alexis Varbero: Making Connections that Matter

#909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

Other Resources Mentioned:

AHD Trade

The Job You Were Born For: 7 Steps to Align Your Work with Your Life Mission – Eileen Hahn

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949: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Lackey: Clarity on Your Next Level and on the Path to Get There

Jessica Lackey

Today With Jessica Lackey:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. For today’s Power Talk Friday, I’m sitting down with Jessica Lackey of Jessica Lackey Consulting. Her extensive experience in consulting and Fortune 500 operations leadership helps her guide businesses to grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, teams, and community. Listen in to learn what reaching the next level means to you and how to get there.

Pick It Apart:

[4:07] Jessica defines the starting point with her clients when they express that they want to reach “the next level.”

[11:16] The first thing to remove yourself from when you want to scale.

[18:55] What to do once you have determined your goal.

[23:02] Strategies to determine the first “bottleneck” if you’re trying to scale on your own with no help from a consultant like Jessica.

[26:39] Jessica offers advice for when your clients are repeatedly clueless about what your pricing is and expect much less.

[36:06] Understanding what “leveling up” means to you.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Lackey’s Ah-Ha Moments

“If you reach the next level where you have to rainmake to support that pipeline, are you designing anymore? If not, are you OK with that? People don’t expect the fact that their roles may completely shift,” – LuAnn Nigara.

“When you think about scaling your business, you need to think about how far you want to remove yourself from the business. So, the first step is to remove yourself from the backend stuff that isn’t your zone of genius,” – Jessica Lackey.

More About Jessica Lackey

Jessica Lackey is a strategy and operations advisor who is on a mission to radically disrupt mainstream business culture in an effort to create sustainable businesses with a human-centric approach. With a background in corporate leadership, McKinsey & Company consulting, and a Harvard Business degree, Jessica knows a thing or two about hustle culture and what it feels like to judge success by the bottom line…at all costs. Now, she combines her deep experience in consulting, Fortune 500 operations leadership, and coaching to help businesses grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, team, and community.

Connect with Jessica Lackey

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn 

Twitter

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #349: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: The Designer CPA

AWDB #827: Power Talk Friday: Bart Anestin: A Marketing Framework For Interior Designers

AWDB #873: Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Design a Better Bottom Line With The Designer CPA

AWDB #909: Power Talk Friday: Traci Connell: Normalizing Wealth With The Gloss

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

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948: The Power Talk Friday Tour: An Unforgettable Day of Insights and Inspiration

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Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, LuAnn announces the return of the Power Talk Friday Tour! She makes some other announcements regarding LuAnn Live, and mentiones some of the dates for the PTF Tour: Dallas on Apr 5, 2024, NJ on Jun 7, 2024, Las Vegas on Aug 2, 2024 and finally, High Point on Oct 25, 2024.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

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947: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit: Learn About the Profitable Niche of Vacation Rental Design at the 2024 VRD Summit

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Today With Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit:

Today on A Well-Designed Business I am joined by Ericka Saurit, Jessica Duce, and Jane Dagmi, the masterminds behind the Vacation Rental Design Summit, happening this spring at High Point Market. According to my guests today, Vacation Rental Design is much more than beautiful spaces—it’s a scroll-stopping, memory-making, profit-building business model. And they want to teach you all about it.  We’re discussing what Vacation Rental Design is (and isn’t), what kind of designer it’s best suited for, along with the content and what to expect at this year’s summit, because the more educated and better prepared you are as a designer in this niche, the more value you’ll bring to vacation rental owners and property managers, who will want to use your services again and again.

Pick It Apart

[2:25] Jessica defines what Vacation Rental Design is (and isn’t).

[7:17] Ericka, Jessica, and Jane all share how serendipitous it has been finding one another and creating together.

[11:29] LuAnn asks what type of designer Vacation Rental Design suits best.

[15:10] Ericka speaks to some of the topics they cover and educate on at the Vacation Rental Design Summit, including marketing and branding.

[20:28] The guests explain what the upcoming Vacation Rental Design Summit is and the topics covered there.

[31:30] Jane covers the structure and schedule of the upcoming summit at High Point’s Spring Market.

[33:16] Jessica explains how this category of design has different needs from brands and vendors versus standard designers.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Vacation rental design is not staging, it’s not residential design, it is unique…It has a lot of layers. But it also has, in my opinion, some of the greatest rewards for a designer for creativity.” – Jessica Duce

“Any one person can be inspired to “take an action” at any moment in time. But it’s the taking of the action that is the key, right? Not just hearing and feeling the inspiration—you’ve got to move. And you have to move through fear often.” – LuAnn Nigara

“The more educated and the more prepared [vacation rental designers] are, the better of value they can sell, the more they can sell design as a sales tool [for the vacation rental owner].” – Ericka Saurit

“Designers are real arbiters of taste. They curate lifestyles for their clients. They can curate vacations. Their expertise goes beyond picking the furniture…[to] create more income that way. They are really curating that person’s entire experience. That’s a big responsibility and one to really accept and embrace if you’re up for it.” – Jane Dagmi

More About Jessica Duce, Jane Dagmi and Ericka Saurit:

Ericka Saurit:

In 2020, after a 20 year global career in interior design and marketing, Ericka Saurit founded Saurit Creative with a mission to support and elevate brands across the entire home industry. Ericka believes that the more clients and customers who understand the value of working with a designer, the better world we’ll create for everyone. Ericka began her career as an interior designer, working with ESI (now NBBJ) in New York and Ralph Appelbaum Associates in Beijing for numerous cultural and hospitality clients throughout Asia, the United States, and Europe, and transitioned to a career in marketing for home brands in 2012. As a global brand marketing leader, she has overseen digital product development and brand strategy at Airbnb in San Francisco, created immersive physical and virtual brand experiences for Tag Heuer, Estee Lauder, and Procter & Gamble in addition to working with top home and lifestyle brands around the world. Ericka is an inspiring and motivating public speaker—frequently invited to lead industry discussions on marketing, brand strategy, and storytelling at conferences in the US and abroad. A southerner at heart and traveler by trade, she maintains residence in both North Carolina and the south of France.

Jessica Duce:

Jessica Duce, owner of JDuce Design LLC, has been in the design industry most of her life.

The daughter of a designer, Jessica has been creating unique and comfortable spaces since her Barbie house as a child. Jessica’s clients are nationwide with a variety of styles, budgets, and needs.

A client once referred to Jessica as a room whisperer, and it stuck.  Her gift to imagine the potential of a space with or without your existing items while consciously helping the client to create their personal style is her talent and passion.

In addition to her residential clients, Jessica was asked to design a VRBO on the Oregon Coast in 2015 for a client. This learning experience inspired Jessica to create a new company specifically for the needs of the vacation rental industry — Vacation Rental Designers. Jessica saw the opportunity to share her skills in vacation rental design in 2023 and formed the Vacation Rental Designers Collective to mentor and support other designers in this category.

Jane Dagmi:

Jane Dagmi is a career storyteller, educator and connector, currently serving as the Managing Director of High Point by Design (HPxD), a non-profit organization that champions for High Point, North Carolina as a year-round destination for design, creativity and innovation by uniting and promoting the city’s rich and productive ecosystem. Prior to this role, she was the Editor in Chief of Designers Today magazine where she spent four years successfully growing the publication’s reputation, audience and community. Jane’s first trek to High Point was in the mid 90’s when she was an editor at Country Living magazine. Enamored with the city’s legacy and intrigued by its fresh potential, Jane has called High Point home since 2018, and enjoys being an active player in High Point’s changing landscape.

Connect with Ericka Saurit

VRD Summit – HPXD – High Point x Design

VRD Summit’s Instagram

Ericka’s Website

Jessica’s Website

Jane’s Instagram

Ericka’s Instagram

Download your free brand audit

Book a call with Erika

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #351: Power Talk Friday: Jane Dagmi: Editor in Chief of Designers Today

AWDB #368: Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design

AWDB #437: High Point Market: Plan a Successful Trip

AWDB #606: Phoebe Oldrey: How a Niche Can Give New Life to Your Business

AWDB #770: Tiffany Cassidy: Niching into Vacation Home Design

AWDB #868: Jill Cole: Sustaining a Prosperous Hospitality Design Firm in an Ever-Changing World

AWDB #894: Jessica Duce: The Vacation Rental Design Summit at High Point Market

Other Resources Mentioned:

VRD Summit – HPXD – High Point x Design

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946: Morgan Molitor: Running Your Interior Design Business When You Have Other Business Ventures

Morgan Molitor

Today With Morgan Molitor:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Hi, welcome to a Well Designed Business. My guest today, Morgan Molitor, was introduced to me by Brad Leavitt, a friend of the show and Power Talk Friday expert. Morgan and Brad, along with Nick Shiffer, founded the Contractor Coalition Summit, a conference for the construction industry. Morgan is also the co-founder of construction2style, a full-service design-build firm, alongside her husband Jamie. And, as if that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Morgan also runs a media company for designers and construction firms, and a separate nonprofit, along with creating online education workshops. Oh, and did I mention she has three young kids?  If that sounds essentially impossible to you, you aren’t alone. Today, Morgan breaks down how she manages to keep everything running smoothly and all the lessons she has learned along the way.

Pick It Apart

[1:04] Morgan breaks down all of the facets of her businesses and how they came to be.

[9:35] Morgan and LuAnn discuss the visionary vs. the implementer and how Morgan turns her ideas into reality.

[16:20] Morgan shares her processes and the way she prioritizes tasks.

[24:18] Morgan and LuAnn talk about work-life balance and maintaining connection when your spouse is your co-worker.

[33:56] Morgan talks about the Contractor Coalition Summit and what attendees can expect.

LuAnn Nigara and Morgan Molitor’s Ah-Ha Moments

“You have to take one thing at a time and be present in the moment. Okay, I’m in business mode. I’m in mom mode. And you know, being a business owner and entrepreneur, clients can rock you, family can rock you. All these things that we deal with every day in our personal lives can rock you.” -Morgan

“You can have the ideas, you can see the vision, you can see where it’s gonna go. But we need the person who says step one is this step two, is this step three is this. The visionary dreamer will be impacting the steps all along the way. But it’s tough to get it done without the people who are getting it done.” -LuAnn

More About Morgan Molitor

Morgan is the other half and co-founder of construction2style, alongside her husband Jamie. Wife, mom of 3, content creator, marketing strategist, stylist and designer.

For over 10 years, they’ve been tearing houses apart and creating new dream spaces not only for their clients but for themselves. Starting c2s from the ground up as a DIY blog and have since evolved into a full- service design + build and small media company. They document it all from the construction side, to how to build a website, developing multiple streams of revenue, to how to build your brand while ensuring profitability, marketing courses, in person workshops, and more.

They also run a nonprofit called resilience2reform, giving those a voice who have reformed their lives and deserve a second chance. As well as is a partner in Contractor Coalition Summit, a four day in person national workshop geared towards Contractors for those looking to elevate their brand.

MN based but nationwide, Morgan graduated from college in Long Beach, CA with a fashion merchandising and marketing degree, she has now taken that creativity and knowledge to use within their multiple businesses, clients homes and websites.

Morgan oversees all content creation, manages the brand partnerships, is the writing guru, and overall creative director. She also heads up their online education courses and in- person marketing conferences. You can always find an infectious smile on Morgan’s face and hear her contagious laugh. She’s a forward thinker, risk taker, and nothing makes her happier than when she gets to play a small part in making people’s dreams and lives thrive.

Connect with Morgan Molitor

Website

Instagram

Facebook

X

Houzz

Pinterest

YouTube

LinkedIn

Email

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

#542: Brad Leavitt: AFT Construction: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#560: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Design Book

#580: Brad Leavitt, AFT Construction: The Two “B” Words: Budget & Builders

#615: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Overcoming Resistance in the Design-Build Process

#649: Power Talk Friday: Brad Leavitt: Understanding Design-Build from the Builder’s Perspective

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945: Power Talk Friday: Courtney Pisarik: Why Consider Hiring a PR Representative as an Interior Designer?

Courtney Pisarik

Today With Courtney Pisarik:

If you’ve ever contemplated hiring a PR representative, this episode is a must-listen! On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one, then Courtney’s name might ring a bell, as she co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Her ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. Today she’ll be joining me to talk about what are those things you need to consider if you’re looking to hire a PR rep, starting with the most important question, the “why” of it.

LuAnn Nigara and Courtney Pisarik’s Ah-Ha Moments

“You should not worry about the competition, you should appreciate the expertise.” – Courtney Pisarik

More About Courtney Pisarik

Courtney Pisarik co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Today, she’s taken her red carpet experience to the world of design, where she continuously helps launch some of the industry’s biggest stars including Bobby Berk, costar of Netflix’s Queer Eye, and Breegan Jane, HGTV host. Courtney’s ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. She approaches each client with a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and intelligence that results in award-winning and influential campaigns. At the end of the day, her hands-on approach and ability to craft powerful brand narratives is what ultimately drives these superior results. Her expertise lies within a diverse group of services including media relations, brand development, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. With a focus on interior designers, architects, and brands in the home and lifestyle space, Ink PR Group’s reach is expansive and ever-evolving.

Connect with Courtney Pisarik

Website

Facebook

X

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 369 Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots

AWDB 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers

AWDB 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

AWDB 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer

AWDB 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger

AWDB 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer

AWDB 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer

AWDB 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo

AWDB 138: Power Talk Friday – Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Designer Within – John McClain’s book

Processes & Systems Collection

Today With Courtney Pisarik:

If you’ve ever contemplated hiring a PR representative, this episode is a must-listen! On this Power Talk Friday we’re joined by a friend of mine, Courtney Pisarik. If you have ever used a PR or had contact with one, then Courtney’s name might ring a bell, as she co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Her ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. Today she’ll be joining me to talk about what are those things you need to consider if you’re looking to hire a PR rep, starting with the most important question, the “why” of it.

LuAnn Nigara and Courtney Pisarik’s Ah-Ha Moments

“You should not worry about the competition, you should appreciate the expertise.” – Courtney Pisarik

More About Courtney Pisarik

Courtney Pisarik co-founded Ink PR Group following her successful starting career in the world of celebrity and entertainment PR, where she worked with A-list Hollywood talents and organizations. Today, she’s taken her red carpet experience to the world of design, where she continuously helps launch some of the industry’s biggest stars including Bobby Berk, costar of Netflix’s Queer Eye, and Breegan Jane, HGTV host. Courtney’s ability to help individuals and brands reach major milestones is deeply rooted in her industry relationships and ability to positively influence any situation. She approaches each client with a combination of enthusiasm, curiosity, and intelligence that results in award-winning and influential campaigns. At the end of the day, her hands-on approach and ability to craft powerful brand narratives is what ultimately drives these superior results. Her expertise lies within a diverse group of services including media relations, brand development, and the ability to foster meaningful connections. With a focus on interior designers, architects, and brands in the home and lifestyle space, Ink PR Group’s reach is expansive and ever-evolving.

Connect with Courtney Pisarik

Website

Facebook

X

Instagram

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB 369 Power Talk Friday: Stephen Karlisch: Professional Tips for Getting More Out of Your Interior Design Photoshoots

AWDB 630: Power Talk Friday: Jessica Delaney: Networking and Press for Photographers and Interior Designers

AWDB 563: Power Talk Friday: Mike Van Tassell: Expressing Your Brand Through Photography

AWDB 444: Power Talk Friday: Sarah Winchester: Talking About Copyright and Usage with an Interiors Photographer

AWDB 97: Linda Holt- From Professional Photographer to Interior Designer and Accomplished Blogger

AWDB 343: Power Talk Friday: Raquel Langworthy: Partnering with Your Interiors Photographer

AWDB 51: Power Talk Friday with David D. Livingston-Professional Interior Photographer

AWDB 623: Power Talk Friday: Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera: The Art of Making, Not Taking, a Photo

AWDB 138: Power Talk Friday – Charlotte Safavi- Why Even An Interior Designer Can Benefit From a Professional Stylist On The Photo Shoot

Other Resources Mentioned:

The Designer Within – John McClain’s book

Processes & Systems Collection

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944: Susan Lizan-Immerman: Lessons from a Seasoned Interior Design Veteran

Susan Lizan Immerman

Today With Susan Lizan-Immerman:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Susan Lizan-Immerman, founder and CEO of MDesign Home Decor, 25+ year veteran businesswoman, and all-around #smartlady.  Susan started her business journey in the garment industry when it was very much a man’s world—but she didn’t let that stop her. Through valuable relationships and connections, as well as a real CEO mindset, that we should all aspire to, Susan grew multiple thriving businesses and created a longstanding career.  I am so excited to share with you my guest today, Susan Lizan-Immerman. Susan is a true seasoned veteran businesswoman.  Today, she’s sharing how she did it, and how you can cultivate that CEO mindset and create a successful interior design business.

Pick It Apart

[5:16] Susan shares her journey and how she learned that connections and networking are everything.

[11:42] LuAnn and Susan discuss the importance of joining organizations and building communities, no matter what level.

[15:35] Susan talks about the importance of mentorship, both as a mentor and a mentee.

[19:52] Susan breaks down her latest venture, MDesign, and how it can benefit interior designers.

[36:10] Susan talks about what it takes to be an effective CEO.

LuAnn Nigara and Susan Lizan-Immerman’s Ah-Ha Moments

“It took telling myself, how do I feel comfortable being uncomfortable? As soon as I start feeling uncomfortable, I have to submerge myself in that in order to feel comfortable.” -Susan

“You have to be prepared to get lucky. You’re constantly preparing, you’re doing all of the right things. You’re making all of the best decisions you can each moment that you can, and then all of a sudden, something happens.” -LuAnn

More About Susan Lizan-Immerman

Conceiving, developing and executing the strategies and initiatives that drive revenue, growth, competitive market positioning, profits and shareholder value is what I do best. Throughout my career in senior executive and entrepreneurial roles with leaders in the apparel and home industry, I’ve earned a track record of success in achieving exceptional rather than expected results. I’m recognized as one who possesses the experience, capabilities and judgment for taking a business to its next level of success or resolving the deficiencies that impede its ability to grow. My management style can be described as “hands on” and decisive yet flexible. I value and reward creative thinking, initiative, teamwork, commitment and performance.

Connect with Susan Lizan-Immerman

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

Pinterest 

YouTube

TikTok

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

#831 Nate Berkus: The Importance of Creating An Exceptional Client Experience

Posted on

943: Power Talk Friday: The Top Ten Listened to Episodes of 2023!

1082 What Would Lu Do The Big Shift What S Changing On A Well Designed Business And Why Thumbnail.png

Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Join me on the last show of 2023 to do a quick recap of the best episodes we had this year! From inspiring events like LuAnn Live 2023 to the launch of our docuseries, “The Making of A Well-Designed Business,” it has been a journey of growth and connection. 2023 brought valuable lessons, including the importance of self-care. Stay tuned as we recap the top 10 most listened episodes of the year!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB

840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

842: Joshua Smith: Sell the Experiences, Not the Commodity

847: Flashback Friday: Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success

844: John McClain: Turn Failure into Success

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

843: Power Talk Friday: Carla Titus: Think Like a CEO By Outsourcing Your Numbers

848: Amy Youngblood: Why Your Contact Form is Critical in Identifying Your Ideal Interior Design Client

849: Power Talk Friday: Staci Davidson: Why You Need Someone to Handle Everything But Design

846: Kellie Burke: If You’re Not Failing, You’re Not Risking

845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

TIE

179. Nancy Ganzekaufer: The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Navigating Conflicting Messages About Money

181: Sandra Funk: A Million Dollar Mindset for Setting Boundaries and Standing in Your Space

177: Katie McDonald: Gaining a Competitive Edge Through Self-Care

180: Jude Charles: Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Burnout and Embracing Wellness

196: Rachael Bozsik-Johanson: The Luxury Shift: Align Your Desires and Elevate Your Brand to the Top 3% of Your Niche

182: Amber de la Garza: The Power of Prioritization: Reimagining Productivity and Embracing Balance

183: Claire Jefford: Content is Queen: Leverage Video Content That is True To You

178: Eileen Hahn: Unlocking Your Joy: Strategies for Personal and Professional Fulfillment

WTFP 

161: Lynn Eastergard: Qualify Your Clients By Charging Consultation and Retainer Fees

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

134: Deb Barrett: Why Textiles Matter

122: Jill Ballew: Her System for Chasing Post Installation Issues

137: Richard Bernath: Networking for a More Profitable Window Treatment Business

169: Lori Ann Jones: Broke to Stoked! Building a Profitable Window Treatment Business, the Lean Way

164: Julie Wood: Let Passion and Enthusiasm Be Your Guide

Other Resources Mentioned:

The “3 Fives” Routine: 15- Minutes A Day To Uplevel Your Whole Life by Joshua Smith

 

Interior Design Standard

 

Profit Insiders Academy with Nancy Ganzekaufer

 

The Designer Within Book by John McClain

Posted on

942: Delyse Berry: The Execution of the Design Project is as Important as the Design Result

Delyse Berry

Today With Delyse Berry:

Today, I am joined by Delyse Berry, owner of Upstate Down, an interior design studio and real estate brokerage, with also a home decor store. Delyse uses a process built around a holistic approach which entails a clear formula for clients to understand what they do, their vision , and the best execution process. This framework delivers an incredible experience for clients, a streamline process for them, and has grown their business faster and more effortlessly. Listen in to get the details!

Pick It Apart

[3:07] How Delyse shares the process with clients without overwhelming them.

[10:30] Trusting yourself so others can trust you.

[12:36]  Delyse breaks down what is on the spreadsheet that clients see, and the spreadsheet that only she and her team see.

[17:00] Backing up all of your documents.

[24:03] How Delyse built momentum in her business in such a short period of time.

[:55] Since they charge hourly, Delyse shares how they track the hours and how they invoice.

LuAnn Nigara and Delyse Berry’s Ah-Ha Moments

 “The execution process is as important as the end result.” – Delyse Berry 

“I think the industry needs to look at the way in which it is executed. If a client isn’t happy about something, we need to look at how we contribute and deliver the news to them.” – Delyse Berry

“Laying out as much up front as you can during your initial conversation with a client is very important.” – Delyse Berry

“A beautiful outcome can’t come from a crappy process.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Delyse Berry

CEO & Principal Broker. Rhinebeck resident by way of New Jersey and Brooklyn. Interior Designer and Principal Broker with 10+ years experience in high end Real Estate in the Hudson Valley. Holiday enthusiast, treasure collector, and proud mama. Is secretly re-designing every room she enters.

Connect with Delyse Berry

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

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:

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

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

Power Talk Friday

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

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

 

AWDB #930: April Gandy: The Key to Managing a Successful Renovation Project

 

AWDB #936: Heather Vitti Pruett: Resilience and Relationships: Keys to Success in Her Interior Design Business