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631: Ariella Horowitz: Success for Design-Build Firms is in the Details.

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Today with Ariella Horowitz

Ariella Horowitz of AH Design Group in New Jersey walks through what it took to go from 10 to 90 design/build projects a year. This #smartlady knows the value not only of hard work, but being bold enough to go for opportunities, and smart enough to iterate when something isn’t working. Ariella shares about how she got her start and what she did to differentiate herself and build success in the design/build world.

Pick It Apart

[13:44] Ariella shares about how builders tried to keep her from working with other builders

[16:08] Ariella shares about her confidence and learning curve working with builders early in her career

[23:30] Ariella shares how she built her team and created spec books

[26:04] Ariella shares how and why she charges clients hourly

[40:14] Ariella shares advice for designers interested in working with builders

[43:49] LuAnn has an “aha” moment about how Ariella’s personality and work ethic attracts clients with similar personalities

LuAnn and Ariella Horowitz’s “Ah-Ha” Moments

“It’s not easy. To get here, you have to put in the hard work.” – Ariella Horowitz

“You have to be willing to put in the time and work really hard.” – Ariella Horowitz

“The Pretty”

More about Ariella Horowitz

As founder and principal designer of AH Design Group, Ariella Horowitz oversees all the design that makes its way into our clients’ beautiful homes. Over the years, Ariella has designed countless chic, sophisticated and innovative interiors and exteriors. Her meticulous and thoughtful approach ensures that she makes a statement in every space. Her eye for detail and dedication to perfection is evident in each room she touches, leaving her mark wherever she goes. Ariella takes her motto, “Design with Distinction” into play when designing each and every space.  Every home Ariella designs is unique and custom to itself.

​AH Design Group, located in Northern NJ, is a full-service interior and exterior design firm specializing in new constructions, full renovations and custom homes. Unlike many other design firms, we take a hands-on approach and check-in at our projects on a regular basis to ensure everything is being done correctly and to perfection. Because we don’t subscribe to one specific design aesthetic, we are able to envision and conceptualize projects ranging across the full spectrum from modern to transitional to traditional. With extensive knowledge of the construction process, we get involved in the very early stages from the architectural planning to the framing process. We collaborate closely with architects, builders, developers, and industry professionals to deliver a vision that is on time and within budget, while simultaneously meeting our clients’ lifestyle needs and design aesthetic.

Connect with Ariella Horowitz

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Mydoma Studio is here to help if you want to learn the process for designing kitchens. Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business – and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar, on January 20th, 2020 will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021.  Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.

Other Shows Mentioned

Christina Bruce #486

Natasa Jones #570

Judith Neary and Corey Classen #449

Brad Leavitt #542, #560, #580, and #615

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

Today with Jessica Delaney

Jessica Delaney is an interior and architectural photographer shooting beauty in the Boston area. She’s also co-founder of a digital interior design showcase, Bijou Magazine. Her magazine is a hub of design beauty and story and an opportunity to see and be seen. Jessica shares how she got started in her business by reaching out to bloggers, designers, and press professionals she met during networking events and everywhere else possible.

Pick It Apart

[19:06] Jessica talks about networking as a photographer

[25:36] Jessica remind us of the value of local press

[32:45] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the purpose of Jessica’s digital platform

[43:44] Jessica reminds us about photography usage rights and compensation

LuAnn and Jessica Delaney’s “Ah-Ha” Moments

“Never be embarrassed of where you have to start – just start somewhere.” – Jessica Delaney

“You never know where your next business partner will come from.” – Jessica Delaney

“Things snowball – you never really know where it’s going to lead.” – Jessica Delaney

More about Jessica Delaney

I’m an interiors and architectural photographer, and one-third of BijOU Magazine.  I’m the lady behind the lens most days since I don’t love having my own photo was taken (ironic, I know!). Lover of music (give me Mumford, JayZ, show tunes, Elvis, and all in between), cooking, podcasts + yoga.

I’ve specialized in interiors + design photography since my first paying client booked me Jan 20, 2013, and has been a dear friend and loyal client since. I’ve photographed the spaces of award-winning designers and believe each space has a personality and story to tell of a life well-lived.  My work has been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, New England Home, Domino, Cottages and Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Design New England, Decor Maine, South Shore Home, Life + Style, The Boston Globe,  and Canada’s The Globe and Mail.

In September of 2018, we launched BijOU Magazine, and since then have been delivering “Small Stories of Big Design”.  We strive to be the digital publication for inspired interiors and lifestyle stories, delivered with wit, substance + style.

When not behind the camera, in front of the computer (or stove) I can be found galavanting in Milton, MA with my three daughters, one husband, and one new pandemic puppy.

Connect with Jessica Delaney

Website

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Revel Woods is a great company and a great source for hardwood and resilient flooring. And they also simplify the selection process with their online tool that is basically your digital advisor in flooring selection. Take a listen to episodes 329 and 452 to see why I’m so excited about his company. Set up your trade account by going to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

Other Shows Mentioned

  • Charlotte Safavi episode 138
  • Sarah Winchester episode 444
  • David Livingston episode 51
  • Stephen Karlisch episode 369
  • Racquel Langworthy episode 343
  • Mike Van Tassel episode 563
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629: Sarah Von Dreele: When you turn a creative outlet into a career.

Sarah Von Dreele

Today with Sarah Von Dreele

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, LuAnn is diving into the world of textiles with designer Sarah Von Dreele. Sarah began painting as a creative outlet which soon transformed into a successful business producing wallcoverings, fabrics, and textiles. She relied on her branding background, her relationships, and her own talents as she launched her line. She’s sharing the lessons she learned along the way and how her business is shifting for the future.

Pick it apart

  • [16:05] Sarah shares how staying “in the moment” opened the door for her to build toward something big.
  • [19:09] LuAnn and Sarah discuss the importance of outsourcing and how difficult it can be to make the decision to let go.
  • [20:11] Sarah explains how her background in corporate and consumer branding gave her a valuable skillset in her business.
  • [23:00] LuAnn and Sarah dive into the importance of building relationships, both in your personal and professional life.
  • [35:38] Sarah shares some insights on how she manages to maintain her creativity even while she operates in business mode.

LuAnn and Sarah’s “Ah-Ha” Moments

“When your life blows up, everything is out of control, and you actually have to live with that and adjust to that. That life experience, in addition, to the professional experiences I had really helped me navigate starting a new business in a completely different way.” -Sarah

“That is one of the toughest decisions we face as business owners—that hurdle of when to hire. We all know intellectually that when you hire your business will grow and the revenue will grow, because you’ve taken yourself away from activities that are not your highest money-generating activities. But internally, you go ‘That’s a lot of dollar bills though!’” -LuAnn

“When you package it and you talk about your brand story, and you figure out where your niche is, and your marketplace is—that’s how you breakthrough in the sea of all the other wallpaper companies. And for you to have had that skillset yourself, I’m sure was a nice leg up.” -LuAnn

“When I am painting, the work is so iterative, and one leads to the next, but then it starts to shift. When I can recognize that it shifts in a negative way and things start to look muddy and with no direction, it’s over. You got the best of it.” -Sarah

More About Sarah Von Dreele

Sarah Von Dreele has spent much of her professional life as a branding consultant, employing her strong visual communication methods to facilitate large and small-scale branding campaigns for over the last twenty years. What began as a simple creative exercise at the end of the day quickly evolved into a collection of surface designs, painted exclusively in gouache. Her latest works explore repetition of abstracted floral and geometric forms, which are ethereal and calm,  and lend themselves to a variety of applications for the curated home. Sarah Von Dreele’s line of bespoke wallcoverings and textiles are available to the trade through Hewn Showroom in San Francisco, Lepere in New York City, and Twill and Texture in Miami. Sarah received a BFA in Graphic Design from Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Between developing new products, painting what she sees, and keeping up with her fourth-grader, she patiently pursues her interest in learning the French language.

Connect with Sarah Von Dreele

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kirsch is always at the forefront of innovation when it comes to window treatments. They have been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. Kirsch is dedicated to providing great resources to educate the design community about their product. Go to kirsch.com to find out more.

Mydoma Studio: Kitchens have always been the heart of the home, and in 2021, they will be the heart of the thriving design business – and if you want to break into, or up your game in one of the fastest-growing residential interior design specialties, then 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready is for you! This one-day seminar put on by Mydoma Studio will give you the process, templates, and confidence to add kitchens to your menu of design services, and have you primed to take advantage of one of the biggest (and most lucrative) trends of 2021. Just head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann to register! And just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Get kitchen project confidence at 19 Hours: Kitchen Project Ready!

Other Shows Mentioned:

#77 Katie Deedy- Founder of Grow House Grow- Inspiration, Guts, and Hard Work in Creating a Business

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

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

#39 Andrew Joseph- Advice From the Principal of an Elite NYC Public Relations Firm

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628: Power Talk Friday: Ginna Christensen: The Importance of Values in Your Interior Design Business

Today with Ginna Christensen

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! On today’s episode, I talk with business coach Ginna Christensen. Ginna specializes in helping designers and creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace. But that work starts with discovering their values. Today, Ginna shares with me why discovering and staying true to your values is integral to your business, and what you can do to identify those values and incorporate them into what you do.

Pick it apart

  • [16:00] Ginna shares the process she uses to help clients uncover their values
  • [21:39] Ginna discusses why holding onto values that aren’t our own holds us back, and why “should” is a word to avoid
  • [31:58] LuAnn and Ginna discuss how identifying your values becomes your roadmap for what you want to experience in your business
  • [40:09] Ginna and LuAnn talk about why turning people off of your business isn’t always a bad thing
  • [42:58] Ginna shares how your values help your business stand out (even if you hate the idea of self-promotion)
  • [47:58] Ginna discusses how fears hold us back from making decisions
  • [56:48] LuAnn shares a personal story highlighting the importance of opening up and sharing our struggles

LuAnn and Ginna Christensen’s “Ah-Ha” Moments

“You don’t have to be like someone else in order to be successful. You can be who you are. And not only can you be who you are, but it’s vital to your success.” -Ginna

“The reason we go into what their values are is because your values help you make the right decisions.” -Ginna

“When it’s a hard decision in your business, it’s ‘Well, does this align with what I said my mission and my values were?’ And if it doesn’t, then no matter how shiny, how pretty, how attractive, how lucrative it might be, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just a no.” -LuAnn

“The best salesperson in the world is uncovering the win for the other person. That’s the sale. It’s figuring out what the other person really needs and wants and providing it for them.” -LuAnn

“When our values are being honored, things are going well for us. When things are not going well, that’s an indicator that our values are not being honored.” -Ginna

More About Ginna Christensen

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ginna Christensen, the daughter of two entrepreneurs, grew up knowing that innovation and the arts would play a central role in her professional and personal life.

Ginna started her career in the fashion industry, working in merchandising and marketing for Giorgio Armani, Ellen Tracy, and Emanuel Ungaro. Her attention moved to art and interiors in early 2000 when she joined the team at T.I. Industries, a company that manufactured wood moulding for the picture frame and furniture industries. Starting as the company’s North East Regional Business Development Manager, Ginna quickly grew into a more creative role designing product, as well as the company’s trade show displays.

Ginna’s career shifted once again when she moved to Los Angeles in 2004 and got her start in the rug business with Aga John. As the VP of Sales and Product Development, she helped reinvigorate the high-end rug company, forging deals with companies like Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home.

In September of 2013, Christensen joined the Los Angeles-based team at Woven as Creative Director. In her three-plus years with the company, she implemented programming, produced events, and created business development strategies which resulted in increased sales revenues, regional and national press coverage, and the launch of Woven at Design Within Reach.

Recognized for her cool and creative solutions to the challenges that modern businesses face, as well as for her willingness to give back to the design community, Christensen was asked to join the West Hollywood Design District Board in 2016 and was quickly appointed chair. In her

two plus years as chairwoman, she helped rebuild the board, lead the board through a complete rebrand, and restructured programming to insure that all members benefitted.

As a result of her work with the Design District and the experience she gained in working with a variety of brands and businesses, Christensen launched her own business in 2017. GC Collaborative launched as a boutique consulting firm and has transitioned into business coaching specializing in helping creatives identify their differentiating points in the marketplace, build a foundation for their brand, and create a roadmap to transform them into STANDOUTS in their field.

While Ginna now calls NYC home, the creative works with clients all over the country.

Connect with Ginna Christensen

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is here for you during these challenging times. They’ve been around for 102 years and want you to know you can trust them to securely process your orders and keep your deposits safe. Take advantage of Kravet Inc’s extensive digital tools and set up a virtual appointment with your local sales representative by logging in to kravet.com.

Article is the best way to buy beautiful modern furniture, and their trade program offers discounts and specialized support. Their team of industry professionals is dedicated to helping you get your projects done, from sourcing and design to invoicing and delivery. Go to article.com to get started today.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#552 Shirry Dolgin: I Have a CPA so I’m Good, Right?

#598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry

#594 Reena Philpot: Ideas for Flexing Your Sales Muscles

#516 Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: Video Storytelling for Your Brand

#613 PTF: Angela Kristen Taylor: The Productivity in Your Business Starts With Your Emotions

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627: Julia Miller: The Evolution of an Interior Design Business

Today with Julia Miller:

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Switching careers into design and building your business from the ground up takes a great deal of planning and consideration. As your business grows and evolves, you face even more questions. On today’s episode, I chat with Julia Miller of j. miller interiors, as she shares how she tackled those questions and made the decisions that let her business evolve and thrive.

Pick it apart:

  • [12:30] Julia discusses her exit plan that laid the groundwork for her to leave her previous career and launch her design firm.
  • [20:44] LuAnn and Julia discuss the tricky question of determining your rates when you don’t have any experience.
  • [27:08] Julia shares insights onto how she manages to stay booked out almost six months in advance and communicate that timeframe to her clients.
  • [43:51] Julia dives into how she uses Pinterest boards to keep her clients busy while they wait for their projects to start.
  • [50:39] LuAnn and Julia dig into Julia’s method for using finances to determine her project workload.

LuAnn and Julia Miller’s Ah-Ha moments:

“I never let myself believe that I could ever make a career change until I had the personal experience and the validation from people that I didn’t know on Instagram.” -Julia

“So often, any business that we do, or any career, whether it’s interior design or whatever it is, we can fall into the trap of not placing enough value on what we’re going to charge because we’re new at it.” -LuAnn

“It was definitely a process of trying to figure out how many projects I needed at what rate and how many hours to make my ends meet financially. Part of that is knowing your worth and being able to charge for that, but also knowing how many hours it realistically takes you to do a project.” -Julia

“I think there’s a lot of scarcity mindset in this business, and I think for people who don’t have a business mindset, there’s a lot of fear.” -Julia

“When you say to me ‘I’ve never had somebody say I won’t pay you ahead of time,’ the only reason is because they haven’t been left with any questions. There’s absolutely no uncertainty in their minds what happens if they give you this money now. You’ve answered all the questions, and that comes from having that enunciated process, and having the confidence to express that process.” -LuAnn

“The Pretty”

More About Julia Miller:

j. miller interiors is a Minneapolis based residential interior design studio committed to creating carefully curated spaces with the highest level of craftsmanship. j. miller interiors focuses on developing homes that are reflections of the clients who live in them through expertly selected fixtures, finishes and furnishings. Through our collaborative, transparent process, we work with clients to create a home they love. j miller interiors serves clients locally in the Twin Cities and across the country through our signature distance design service.

Connect with Julia Miller:

Website

Instagram

Pinterest

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsors:

Mydoma Studio is the complete interior designer toolkit. Their workflow software keeps your design projects organized from beginning to end. They also offer a thriving design community so you’re never on your own. You can get started with Mydoma at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

At Monogram, it’s all about the details that come together to create appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed for you. Their trade professionals program helps educate you on the details and nuances that you need to understand so you can bring the best to your clients and share those details effectively. Become a trade partner today at monogram.com/luann.

Other Shows Mentioned:

#55 Rachel Moriarty – Message to Solopreneurs- Act As If the World is Watching

#601 Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game

#267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years

#291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design

#522 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang, CPA: Taxes and the Coronavirus Relief Package Explained

#464 Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #FreeTheDesigner

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

#547 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman of Hashtag Legal: 5 Steps to Sharpen Your Negotiation Skills

#454 Power Talk Friday: Jamie Lieberman: Hashtag Legal – Lawyers That Speak Designer

#149 Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee

#566 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: Talk to Clients Like a Leader Not a Boss

#412 Power Talk Friday: Ashley Uhl: How to Deliver a High-End Client Experience

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626: Power Talk Friday: Jude Charles: How to Tell Your Story to Connect with Clients in Interior Design

Judecharles Headshot

Today with Jude Charles: 

We’re welcoming Jude Charles back to the show! Jude is a video storyteller and he’s showing us how he works his magic for brands by using LuAnn as his guinea pig! Don’t miss this journey through LuAnn’s heart and mind as we discover what makes LuAnn LuAnn and how the simple moments of her life inform her why.

Pick it apart:

[14:31] LuAnn gives advice on being patient and working hard while you’re finding your way

 

[29:21] LuAnn talks about when she realized her first career was more than selling blinds

 

[32:43] Jude and LuAnn talk about clients wanting to know who you really are 

 

[43:14] LuAnn tells the story about when she exhibited integrity in her Window Works business

 

[51:55] Jude sums up the value of storytelling

 

[55:23] Jude talks about what makes someone want to do business with a particular designer

LuAnn and Jude Charles’ Ah-Ha moments:

“Sometimes, you’re creating the life experiences so you’re ready to do and be the thing…just give it a minute.” —LuAnn

 

More About Jude Charles:

Jude Charles is a story-driven filmmaker, brand strategist & speaker. For over 13 years, he has been producing documentaries & videos for purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He lives and breathes YOUR brand. He digs deep to find the compelling stories that no one else knows & then leverages those stories to scale your business.

 

Connect with Jude Charles

Website 

LinkedIn

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#516

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625: Coco & Jack: Flexibility and Balance Between Interior Design and Family

Today with Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack: 

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show, Luann is joined by Steve and Alyssa Terpstra of Coco & Jack. Steve and Alyssa run their firm together without any other employees, with Steve running the business and sales side, and Alyssa creating the designs. They also have a large family with four young children. Today, they’re sharing their strategies for running a growing business together while staying flexible and balanced with their family. 

 

Pick it apart:

  • [14:48] Steve dives into Coco & Jack’s pricing process
  • [19:08] LuAnn and Steve dissect how to determine the budget, even if the client is unsure or less-than-forthcoming
  • [28:07] Luann and Alyssa discuss how referring out projects is sometimes vital for growing to the next stage of business
  • [29:23] Alyssa shares how the flow of the workweek and balancing parenthood looks for them
  • [38:36] Luann and Alyssa discuss the double-edged sword of Pinterest-based design and how to maintain creativity when design examples are just a few clicks away

LuAnn, Steve and Alyssa’s Ah-Ha moments:

“It’s not just having a person who’s capable and qualified to come in and do the project management, but the trust and confidence that it’s your husband, that he’s as invested and has your back and the best interest of the company, you, and the clients in mind.” -LuAnn

 

“That process of trying to figure out where our budget numbers are going to be, comes from talking with the potential client about their lifestyle, the way they’re living now, what area they’re living in…it chances on every project we quote.” -Steve

 

“It’s a tough time. I talk to designers about making that transition from all of the projects, when we’re in that phase of ‘We have to take all the business we can because we have to get this company up and rolling,’ and then making that transition to weeding those out.” -LuAnn

 

“It’s interesting because we’re together all the time, but we still don’t know where we are until we get to that Monday morning meeting. Then we’re back on track again.” -Steve

 

“When I think back to when I first started my business, Pinterest was a lot smaller. Instagram was a lot smaller. There wasn’t as much out there. You were forced to look in more creative ways for inspiration. Now, it’s just so easy to find all these beautiful ideas, with endless amounts of it. It enables copying a lot more than going you and being authentic with design.” -Alyssa

 

More About Coco & Jack:

Coco & Jack is a full-service interior design studio run by husband and wife team Steve and Alyssa Terpstra. After years of talking about working together, they were finally able to take the leap and make the dream a possibility. Steve has a passion for business and manages everything behind the scenes, while Alyssa is all about the design, and can’t get enough of space planning and fabric samples.

Whether you are building your dream home, or just need help decorating a room, we love making houses feel more like home!

 

Connect with Coco & Jack:

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

Pinterest

YouTube  

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

Monogram: At Monogram, no detail gets overlooked. In fact, it’s the details that create luxury appliances that look, feel, and perform as if they were designed perfectly for your client. That’s why Monogram works to make sure that you have the right, detailed information to share with your clients. They even offer easy-to-use 3D design tools to make your job easier. Get started with their trade program at https://www.monogram.com/luann.

 

Kravet: You can easily shop Kravet, Lee Jofa, and Brunschwig & Fils all in one place. Introducing new and easy to use search features so you can find the latest products and collections right at your fingertips. Want more of the story behind the collection? Explore the new editorial blog, Inspired, for a behind the scenes look at everything Kravet has to offer. Use promo code AWDB10 for a 10% discount on Kravet fabric, trim, and wallcovering. 

Other Shows Mentioned: 

#587 Darrell Long: The Best Design Comes From Within, Not Pinterest

#270 Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle

#480 Chris Loves Julia: Quality Content Creation is Key to Their Success

#474 Bria Hammel: Keys to Scaling Your Interior Design Firm

 

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624: Is LuAnn Live Worth It?

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Today on A Well-Designed Business: 

Have you been wondering if LuAnn Live 2021 is worth it? Well, on today’s episode I am going to address your concerns and tell you exactly why it’s worth it!

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

 

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

Today with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:

Photography experts Charlotte Safavi and Robert Radifera join us to talk about how they create publication-ready photography that tells the story of your space. Listen in as the dynamic duo guide us through the process of preparing the space and doing whatever has to be done to get the perfect shot.

“The Pretty”

Photography and styling @stylishproductions ; interior design @jamiemerida

Photography and styling @stylishproductions ; interior design @arlingtonhomeinteriors

Photography and styling by @stylishproductions ; interior design @brittdesignstudio

Photography and styling @stylishproductions ; interior design @maryhannahinteriors

Photography and styling @stylishproductions ; interior design by Imagine Design, Liz Mearns @lizmearns https://www.lizmearns.com/

Photography and styling by @stylishproductions ; Interior Design by Anderson Wier Studio @anderson.wier.studio www.andersonwierstudio.com

Photography and styling @stylishproductions ; architecture and design CLITES ARCHITECTS PC  @clitesarchitects https://www.clitesarchitects.com/

More About Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:

Stylish Productions (photo-stylist Charlotte Safavi and photographer Robert Radifera) is a holistic, boutique business dedicated to creating editorial-quality interior and architectural photography. We also offer design clients related services, such as logo, website, branding, social media, and marketing support. Between us (me and Robert), our work has been published in many magazines, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Home, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Cottages & Bungalows, HGTV Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and more.

Connect with Charlotte Safavi & Robert Radifera:

Website 

Instagram

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

luannnigara.com/launch

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

 Kravet knows the importance of delivering an amazing project, especially in these crazy times. Their warehouses and showrooms are open with safety measures in place. They’re offering virtual appointments and even curbside pickup at some of their showroom locations. Thank you Kravet for serving our designers so well and also for believing in and supporting the show.]

https://www.kravet.com/

Posted on

622: Dwayne Bergmann: Empower Your Team to Own the Project Management While Maintaining Design Vision as the Creative Director

Today with Dwayne Bergmann: 

Dwayne Bergmann switched from a corporate career to launch a design firm because he loves to design. With a growing team and 40 active projects, how does he ensure he’s still doing the design work he loves? Dwayne guides us through the detailed structure, activities and deliverables he uses to allow him to manage a 13-person team while still staying close to the creative.

Pick it apart:

[21:57] Dwayne compares developing and executing business processes to the process of creating and editing a design project

[33:01] Dwayne explains how he directs his designers and oversees the design process

[49:07] Dwayne talks about how he controls the firm’s priorities

[1:02:30] Dwayne walks through the activities and deliverables of his structured design project management system

LuAnn and Dwayne Bergmann’s Ah-Ha moments:

  • “I’m managing reports, not transactions.” – Dwayne Bergman
  • “Having a detailed organizational process is what allows us to be creative.” – Dwayne Bergman
  • “The structure allows the creativing to flow uninterrupted.” – Dwayne Bergman
  • “Don’t spoon feed your team. They have to be capable of making decisions and becoming effective leaders.” – Dwayne Bergman

More About Dwayne Bergmann:

Dwayne Bergmann Interiors is a renowned design firm driven by an inherent mission to create ideal backdrops for the lives his clients want to live. Founder and principal Dwayne Bergmann and his team value discovery, creativity and human interaction, and use these three as the jumping-off point for their evolved and highly tailored designs. They connect. They listen. They then use this information to design with abandon, taking risks and tearing down the walls of what’s possible to create spaces that are as authentic and dynamic as the individuals for whom they are designing.

 

Founded in 2013 and based in South Florida, with offices in Fort Myers and Naples, Dwayne Bergmann Interiors specializes in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects, from architecture and interiors to full-service design-build, throughout the United States, Canada, South America and the Bahamas. His projects have enlivened the pages of countless publications, including Luxe Interiors + Design, East Coast Home + Design, Gulfshore Life, and Naples Illustrated, among others. Inspired by art, nature and the visual curiosities of both the everyday and the extraordinary, Bergmann is known for his inventive kitchen and bath concepts, as well as his custom furniture designs. His ultimate goals is to have his clients walk into their Dwayne Bergmann Interiors—designed home and feel as if they can’t believe they get to live there.

Connect with Dwayne Bergmann

Website 

Instagram  

Facebook 

LinkedIn  

 

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Luannlive.com

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

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

Pre-Order 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

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

 Mydoma gives you one spot for orders, invoicing, online payments, design package creation, product sourcing, time tracking, and even a client portal. You can stay on top of your design businesses and go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.