Page 27 – LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

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

The Power Talk Friday Tour

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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1:6:19

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

The Power Talk Friday Tour

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

03-29-202408-12-2026

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

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0:47:15

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

The Power Talk Friday Tour 2024

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 ·798: Brook Perdigon: Turning a Creative Passion Into a Thriving Business

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #392: Dala Al-Fuwaires: Commercial Designer, Focused Business Owner

AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

AWDB #838: Regan Baker: Building A Team That Supports Your Core Values

03-26-202408-15-2024

969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships

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1:5:49

969: Pure Salt Interiors: Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln: Licensing Partnerships

Today With Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I have a two-for-one as I am joined by best friends and business partners Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, co-owners of Pure Salt Interiors. If you have ever been interested in partnering with another brand, this episode is for you. I couldn’t wait to have Aly and Leigh on today to pick this apart because I know that a lot of designers are interested in forming partnerships, but have no idea how to find them, how to start them, who to start them with, all of the things. Today, Aly and Leigh answer these questions and more.

Pick It Apart:

[:55] Aly and Leigh share their backgrounds and how long they’ve known each other.

[11:33] Leigh explains why they seek partnerships on a grand scale in their business.

[17:35] Explain how they form their partnerships from the initial connection.

[21:33] Share their first opportunity to partner with Mo Money.

[32:27] Things that Aly and Leigh learned that they didn’t realize from collaborating with a partner.

[41:23] How Pure Salt partnered up with Leftbank.

[52:23] Leigh and Aly share their “why” for forming so many partnerships.

[54:20] What is the process in terms of crafting a contract with your new partner?

[58:00] What should you have ready to bring to the table before approaching a brand for a partnership?

LuAnn Nigara, Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln’s Ah-Ha Moments

“It is one thing when it comes to creating a product people love, but there is a slew of different things to consider for them to sell well.” – Aly Morford.

“It is important to lean into your partner’s knowledge, opinions, and expertise as well.” – Leigh Lincoln.

More About Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

Founded in 2016 by best friends and business partners, Aly Morford and Leigh Lincoln, Pure Salt creates inspired spaces, products, and experiences that encourage people to live deeply in each moment through clean, functional, family-friendly design through its design studio, Newport Beach retail store, and eponymous Pure Salt Shoppe.

Connect with Aly Morford & Leigh Lincoln

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

Cheryl Luckett about Wildwood Collection – “A Well-Designed Business” A Documentary Series

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

Other Shows Mentioned:

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #160: Kelli Ellis – Live and Learn by the Rock Star Principles

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

AWDB #573 Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

AWDB #882: Bria Hammel: Doing Fewer Interior Design Projects and Increasing Your Profitability

03-22-202410-18-2024

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

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1:19:32

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

Today With Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Hi, welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Overheard episode, I’m joined by Charles Pavarini III, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola. We rarely talk about design itself on the podcast—we’re much more focused on the business sode of things. But the conversation about creativity has popped up several times over the years in discussions I have had with many of you.

I have often wondered, is creativity something you just have or you don’t? And if you do have it, how do you know, and how do you channel it into your work?

What is it that makes some spaces just truly, unquestionably impressive? And is there a formula, a process, or a system for developing that? Or is it just innate? Today, I turn to the experts to answer these questions.

Pick It Apart:

[5:57] Charles, Leyden, and Maria share their viewpoints on where creativity comes from and how to harness it.

[18:55] We discuss the teaching side of creativity and how to draw it out of students.

[30:18] We unpack how to find the balance between your own creativity and the client’s needs and budget.

[42:32] Charles, Leyden, and Maria share their advice for upcoming designers who want to develop their creative skills.

LuAnn Nigara, Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I think that the designer has something that the layperson does not have…and when you can unclutter your head with specifics—that’s when inspiration comes.” -Charles

“We teach students to open and receive the creativity that’s already stirring inside them, but they just don’t know how to release it. We also take that and help them understand how to put it into the actual design of a room.” -Maria

“I think for artists, shame is a major component—you have to get beyond it and allow yourself to express yourself. I think the most creative people are the bravest people I know.” -Leyden

More About Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Leyden Lewis: Leyden Lewis’ received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture from Parsons School of Design, The New School. He has continued to teach at the Parsons School of Design at The New School, as well as the New York School of Interior Design throughout his career. Leyden’s design aesthetic is at once rooted in a rich classical Modernism coupled with ancient traditions and methodologies. He operates from a deep interest in art and the history of design to tell a new and modern stories. Leyden Lewis Design Studio has created and curated poetic and culturally sensitive spaces for over thirty years. Our practice engages with the cultures of the past and present, and allows for a fluid integration between art, architecture, and design. As a fine artist, Leyden has exhibited at the Studio Museum in Harlem and at NYU’s 80WSE. Leyden is a Founding Member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild (BADG).

Charles Pavarini: Pavarini’s years of experience, former career in theater, and extraordinary creativity have made him a trend-setting Interior Designer. Recognized for Residential and Commercial Architectural Interior Design, his work is consistently highlighted with intricate lighting design elements and brilliant technological innovation. His design sensibility incorporates an International Style based in Classicism and a theatrical component in less-than typical ways. Lighting is a focus within his work and he currently serves on the board of directors of the Designers Lighting Forum of New York. His book Lighting Beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LED’s was recently published by Schiffer Publications. A Recipient of 34 Design awards including an Interior Design B.O.Y Award, a LUMEN Award, and IFDA’s Circle of Excellence Award, confirms his influence and leadership within the Interior Design Profession.

Maria Viola: Maria adds a unique perspective that stems from her expertise with color, custom designs and knowledge of design history. Developing long-lasting relationships has enabled her to take clients through multiple projects.

Maria received her Master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University. She has taught extensively at the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design at Drexel University, remaining grounded in academia but alive to new trends.

Her work has ranged from custom furniture designs to office spaces to the renovation of entire residences. As part of Philadelphia’s new guard of interior designers, she has the ability to combine modern and traditional – balancing scale and proportion – always with a twist that raises it above the ordinary. With humor, knowledge, and the ability to uncover a client’s own sense of style, she partners with clients to affect change in their lives.

Maria is active in the American Society of Interior Designers, PA East Chapter and is Past President of its Board of Directors. She is the past recipient of two Chapter Awards; the Educator Award and the Presidential Citation and an IDA Philadelphia award for custom design of gates for a client’s home. Maria also sits on the board of Bartram’s Garden, Philadelphia and co-chairs its annual Twilight In The Garden Fundraising event.

Connect with Charles Pavarini, Leyden Lewis, and Maria Viola

Leyden’s Website

Leyden’s Instagram

Charles’ Website

Charles’ Book: Lighting beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LEDs

Charles’ Instagram

Maria’s Website

Maria’s Instagram

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