137 | Strategies to Become Profitable in Your First Two Years as an Interior Designer

Have you ever wasted hours searching for the right help for your interior design business, only to feel frustrated and stuck? What if there was an easier way to find the right people who truly understand interior design?In this episode, I chat with Ronniesha Rivera, an interior designer and founder of Vetted By Design—a free centralized platform for interior designers to connect with highly vetted professionals without stress.Ronniesha shares her painful story of hiring the wrong bookkeeper early in her business, which cost her thousands of dollars. From that mistake came a brilliant idea: a one-stop, trusted place where interior designers can find reliable pros who understand the industry, like 3D renderers, bookkeepers, lawyers, virtual design assistants, social media managers, and more.If you are starting your design business or growing your team, this episode will give you a smart solution to save time, avoid costly mistakes, and build a team you can trust.🎧 Tune in now to learn how Vetted by Design can help you grow your business with less stress and more support.Featured Guest:⁠Ronniesha Rivera⁠ is the founder and CEO of ⁠Vetted By Design⁠ (VBD). He passion for VBD stems from her challenges as an interior designer. After years in the industry, she grew frustrated with endlessly searching through Facebook groups and Google just to find the right professionals to hire. She knew there had to be a better way—a centralized platform where designers could easily connect with vetted businesses that cater to our industry. And that’s exactly why Vetted By Design was created.Ronniesha believes ⁠Vetted By Design⁠ can help any designer at any stage of their business.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:📌 Learn how to avoid costly hiring mistakes and build a reliable team📌 Discover a free tool to find highly vetted professionals across various specialties faster, easier, and stress-free📌 Grow and scale your interior design business more effectivelyCheck out the show notes >>> How to Build Your Dream Design Team Without the Headache NEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: [email protected]🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction and Overview of Vetted by Design (VBD)02:15 Ronniesha’s Journey into Interior Design04:23 Hiring Mistakes and Painful Lessons06:42 The Birth, Concept, and Mission of Vetted by Design11:05 Categories and Coverage12:41 The Vetting Process16:20 How Designers Use the Platform and Pro Qualifications22:13 Future Plans and Expansion

Is the interior design industry evolving too quickly, and are you prepared for it?Or maybe you are questioning whether pursuing a career as an interior designer is still a wise decision in today's landscape.In this episode, I take you through how the interior design industry has changed over the past 15 to 20 years, and what that means for you today.From pandemic ups and downs, to social media trends, to working with AI, you'll learn how the industry has grown and where it’s going next.If you’re wondering what skills and services clients need now, this episode gives you clear answers. I share what services clients are looking for, which skills matter most, and how you can stand out. The career is always changing, but that means more opportunities if you're ready to adapt.Tune in now to stay confident and creative in a changing world.👉 Need help launching your interior design business step-by-step? Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp —doors are still open!Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:🎨 Find out which tools, tech, and mindset shifts are helping designers succeed today, even without a degree or traditional experience💡 Get insights into growing trends like e-design, content creation, niche services, and how you can use them to stand out and reach more clients🏷️ Review your existing business model and pricing structures to determine the best approach for your interior design practiceCheck out the show notes >>> The State of Interior Design in 2025NEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summerGrab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: [email protected]🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction01:37 Pandemic’s Impact on the Industry03:37 Rise of Work-From-Home and Home Office Design03:58 Sustainable Design Trends04:59 Social Media’s Influence06:15 Tariffs & Economic Uncertainty07:42 Career Trends in Interior Design10:19 Virtual & E-Design Opportunities10:50 Rise of Design Content Creation12:21 Niche Specializations and Digital Tools14:07 Job Opportunities in 202514:37 Education and Licensing Trends15:41 Impact of AI and Business Model Shifts17:20 The Future of Interior Design

"You have to work hard for money" or "Money doesn't grow on trees" are just a few of the money beliefs that many of us grew up with. These childhood beliefs may be quietly hindering your design business.In this episode, I chat with expert CFO and money mindset coach Audrey Faust who explains how your early experiences with money shape your current success, often without you even realizing it.As a creative professional, you’re trained in design, not finance. But to grow a profitable business, you need both. Audrey shares how to shift your thinking and set up smart financial systems that support your success. She explains how your subconscious mind—where 95% of your thoughts live—might be running the business, and how to retrain it to support growth, confidence, and profit.If you're ready to stop undercharging, feel more confident with your money, and start building a design business that thrives, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and grab Audrey’s free Profit Accelerator Workbook to take the first step toward mastering your money and your mindset!And if you need a step-by-step guidance to feel empowered in your business finances, check out Profitable Business Academy and use code DESIGN35 for 35% off.Featured Guest:⁠Audrey Faust⁠ is an expert CFO and money mindset authority who helps entrepreneurs create the financial strategies they need to scale their businesses for increased profit and growth.Through her unique blend of financial expertise and mindset coaching, Audrey empowers her clients to master their financial data with clarity and confidence. Her signature approach goes beyond numbers, instilling a strategic money mindset that fuels growth, boosts profitability and enables entrepreneurs to make empowered, forward, focused decisions.Audrey's best selling book, ⁠She Grows Rich⁠, further explores these transformative principles, offering women actionable steps to become financial powerhouses.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:📌Learn how to overcome limiting money beliefs and start believing in your value as a designer📌Get simple, clear steps to separate business and personal finances and avoid common financial mistakes designers make📌Stop stressing over money (aka pricing) and start making empowered, confident decisionsCheck out the show notes >>> How to Rewire Your Money Beliefs to Increase Profits in Your Design BusinessLinks Mentioned:💡 Need guidance in your business finances? Check out Profitable Business Academy and use code DESIGN35 for 35% off💡 12 Secrets from an Expert CFO: Free Profit Accelerator Workbook💡 She Grows Rich for personal financial inspiration and business insightsNEXT STEPS:🎯Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summerGrab your freebies:🔖Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: [email protected]🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction: Money Mindset and the Creative Professional03:05 Audrey’s Background and Path to Coaching04:51 The Role of Money Mindset in Sustainable Growth08:20 How to Reprogram Limiting Beliefs10:07 First Financial Steps for New Designers12:39 Sweat Equity and the Timeline to Profitability15:11 Pricing Strategies and Profitability18:01 Overcoming Money Blocks When Pricing Projects21:08 Handling Project Issues and Reserves22:21 Final Takeaways for Financial Success

Are you stuck thinking "What if I mess up?" or "What if I don't sound like I know what I'm talking about?" when calling yourself an interior designer?You're not alone.Many talented people with a natural eye for design stay stuck because they're waiting for someone to give them permission to start their careers. But here's the truth: you don't need anyone's permission except your own.In this episode, I talk about why you don’t need permission from anyone to become an interior designer—you already have what it takes. I share stories from my journey and common fears many new designers have, like not knowing enough or worrying they’ll make mistakes.You will learn how to move forward despite your fears, and understand why your “why” is most important. I also provide three simple steps to start your interior design career immediately!Creativity is personal, and being an interior designer means being brave enough to try. Whether you want to change your niche, charge for your work, or say yes to something new, this episode gives you the permission to begin.Stop waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect skills. Your design career starts the moment you decide to believe in yourself. Listen now and give yourself permission to become the interior designer you've always wanted to be – because I am officially giving you that permission right here, right now.If you need help getting your business off the ground and running, join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp. Classes start in July.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:👉 Overcome your fear-based thoughts and start believing in your own design abilities👉Get official permission to start your interior design career today, with or without a degree or a perfect plan👉Learn the 3 simple steps you can take this week to launch your design businessCheck out the show notes >>> Stop Waiting for Permission and Start Your Interior Design Career Now NEXT STEPS:🎨 Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summerGrab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: [email protected]🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction02:07 Personal Reflection on Waiting for Permission03:12 Common Mindset Blocks03:58 Core Principle: Expertise Comes From Starting04:39 Signs You're Ready to Start06:24 Affirmations and Mindset Shifts09:40 Direct Permission Statement10:00 Practical Steps to Get Started11:49 Overcoming the Starting Hurdle

Are you drowning in design project chaos, juggling emails, texts, and scattered communication that's driving you crazy? You're not alone! Today's guest has been there too.I interview Erinn V, a luxury interior designer and the founder of StyleRow, a powerful platform made to help designers like you stay organized, save time, and run your business better.Erinn shares how she grew from decorating her apartment to designing homes for celebrities and creating a tool that solves the very problems she faced in her own business.StyleRow solves the biggest headaches designers face: scattered communication, complicated client presentations, and time-consuming administrative tasks. The software allows designers to centralize project communication, create easy-to-navigate client dashboards, and save up to two-thirds of their back-office time - all while providing a seamless experience for clients.If you're ready to get more done without the stress, tune in now and learn how StyleRow can help you work smarter, not harder.Featured Guest:⁠Erinn Valencich⁠ is an entrepreneur who began her career at a young age. She graduated from high school early, choosing to forgo college to enter the workforce immediately. At 24, she founded her design firm, ⁠Erinn V Design Group (EVDG)⁠. She later established a furniture brand, Erinn V, and most recently became a software visionary by creating ⁠StyleRow⁠, a platform designed to help designers communicate, present, and design, as well as discover the best offerings in the luxury design world.EVDG has designed projects worldwide, alongside a wide array of home and lifestyle products including door & cabinet hardware, Hollywood Hills by ERINN V. for Baldwin Hardware, furniture with Universal Furniture and Ambella Home, rugs with Creative Touch and Mehraban, lighting with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting and window coverings with Hartmann & Forbes, alongside more collaborations to come.Her work has been featured in Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Town & Country, and House Beautiful, among other publications.Erinn has four horses and resides with her husband in the Santa Rosa valley.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:💡 Learn how to reduce administrative stress and create a more profitable workflow🎨 Discover a tool to save time and stay organized while managing multiple design projects🔖 Get real advice from an industry leader to grow both creatively and professionally in the design fieldCheck out the show notes >>> The Tool That Helps Interior Designers Stay On Track and Save Time Links Mentioned:StyleRow, a project management tool for interior designersNEXT STEPS:Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summerGrab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction2:37 Erinn V's Background and Early Career06:44 Getting Her First Clients07:44 Transitioning to Luxury Design11:33 Developing a Furniture Brand15:55 The Birth of StyleRow21:05 Features and Benefits of StyleRow29:36 Erinn's DIY Courses30:57 Advice for Aspiring Designers

Interior designers often get confused about whether to hire an employee or an independent contractor because the decision involves several complex factors—legal, financial, and practical—that aren't always clear at first glance.In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of both options, including cost, commitment, legal rules, and how much control you have. I also share my real-life experience of hiring interns and contractors to full-time employees, and explain why shifting your mindset from fear to strategy is key to sustainable growth.I also talk about setting up your business as an S-Corp, protecting your work with contracts, and why thinking like a CEO is key to building a business that lasts.Tune in now and start building a business that supports your growth.And if you need help getting your business off the ground and running, join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp. Classes start in July.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Get a clear comparison of hiring options to make the right decision for your interior design businessLearn how setting up your business structure (like switching to an S-Corp) can make hiring easier and more legitSet up your design business for long-term success and potential future succession planningNEXT STEPS:Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summerGrab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction: Why Hiring Help Becomes Necessary(02:48) Fears and Misconceptions About Hiring Employees(04:16) Low-Risk/Low-Reward of Contractors vs. High-Risk/High-Reward of Employees(04:54) Rebecca's Journey into Hiring(08:23) Benefits of Becoming an S-Corp(13:15) Advantages of Hiring Employees Over an Independent Contractor(16:47) Legal Considerations (Especially in California)(18:58) Mindset Shift and Strategic Hiring(20:37) Practical Tips for Hiring and Managing Employees(22:10) Final Thoughts

Interior designers have the ability to shape experiences through their work. Whether it's helping a family feel more connected at home, creating a more uplifting environment in a senior living space, or reducing stress in a healthcare setting, their contributions go beyond merely making spaces look beautiful. They play a vital role in improving people's lives.In this inspiring episode, I chat with Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, who shares how interior design becomes meaningful when driven by purpose. From calming urgent care centers to uplifting senior living communities, Blima shows how thoughtful design can help people feel safe, supported, and inspired.You’ll discover how designing with empathy and intention can transform everyday spaces into places of healing, comfort, and connection. Blima also shares how she grew her firm across North America, the lessons she’s learned from real-life mistakes like how to handle mistakes and lead a team, and how she now mentors others to do purposeful work through her TDG Insider program.If you want your work to feel more fulfilling and make a real impact, this episode is for you. Tune in now and discover how to bring purpose into your projects and create spaces that change lives.Featured Guest:⁠Blima Ehrentreu⁠, founder and CEO of ⁠The Designers Group⁠, is a creative visionary and industry trailblazer. Committed to empowering women and driving philanthropy, Blima's impact goes beyond traditional design boundaries. Her passion and leadership showcase the transformative power of purpose-driven design in creating a better world.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Learn how to design with purpose and impactGet real-world business and leadership insightsDiscover mentorship and giving-back opportunitiesCheck out the show notes >>> The Power of Purpose-Driven Design in Changing Lives and Spaces Links Mentioned:Apply for the TDG Insider program to shadow the team in the New York officeTDG Furniture Exchange if you have furniture to donate; giving furniture new life rather than disposalNEXT STEPS:Join the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(02:00) Blima's Early Interest in Interior Design(03:11) Education and Foundational Experience(04:41) The Importance of Design Implementation(06:04) Influence of Cross-Industry Design Experience(08:44) The Growth of The Designers Group(09:48) Mentorship and Scaling the Business(12:14) Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Mistakes(16:11) Dream Projects and Purpose-Driven Design(19:20) Advice to Aspiring Interior Designers(20:54) How to Join the TDG Insider Mentorship Program(21:59) Charitable Initiatives of The Designers Group

Is it possible to become an interior designer without going back to school?If you're dreaming of a second career in interior design but don’t have the time or money for a two- or four-year degree, this episode is for you.I share practical ways you can use the skills you already have to get hired in a design firm—even if you’ve never worked in interior design before.You'll learn what small firms are really looking for, and how your background in project management, sales, customer service, client relations to creative problem-solving and business know-how, or creative work like event planning or graphic design could be just what they need.I also share how to build a starter portfolio, highlight your strengths in your resume and cover letter, and stand out with tools like CAD software and short certifications.You don’t need a degree to get started. All you need is a smart plan and the confidence to show what you bring to the table.And if you want help finding your path, check out My Design Mentor, or join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp to get your business off the ground and running.Tune in now and take your first step toward a career you’ll love!Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Discover how your current career skills transfer to interior designGet practical tips for building a starter portfolio without formal experienceFind out what a smaller design firm really looks for in new hires and prepare yourself accordinglyCheck out the show notes >>> Switching to Interior Design Career? How to Make Yourself Marketable Without a DegreeEpisode Sponsor: Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DESIGNCURIOUS for 40% offNEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist ⁠Launch Your Business Bootcamp⁠ to secure your spotJoin the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(01:55) Understanding the Interior Design Job Market(03:49) Identifying & Communicating Transferable Skills(08:59) Developing a Portfolio Without Formal Training(11:07) Networking and Professional Development(14:13) Recap & Final Encouragement

Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to pursue your dream of becoming an interior designer?In this episode, you’ll meet Alison Geise, a former dietitian and law school grad who took the scenic route to interior design and built a thriving business doing what she loves. If you’re thinking about switching careers, Alison’s story will show you it’s possible.Alison shares how her love for decorating turned into a full-time career, even after years in completely different fields. She talks about the steps she took to learn design, how she filled the gap in business knowledge, and why her unique life experience now sets her apart in the industry.Whether you’re just starting or thinking of a fresh start, this episode is packed with helpful tips for making your move into design the smart way.Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Tune in now, take notes, and explore how second chances can lead to stunning design careers.Featured Guest:⁠Alison Giese⁠ is the visionary founder and principal designer of ⁠Alison Giese Interiors⁠, an esteemed, boutique interior design firm based in San Antonio, Texas.She has cultivated a reputation for seamlessly blending sophisticated elements with unparalleled finishes, resulting in homes that are visually stunning and deeply reflective of her client's distinct stories.Alison's journey into interior design is as unique as her creations. After a diverse career as a registered dietitian and law school graduate, a transformative move overseas ignited her passion for design, prompting her to pursue a certificate in interior decorating. Drawing inspiration from her travels and rich experiences, she creates interiors that embody a refined sense of place and character.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Learn actionable tips on how to start your design career without a design degreeDiscover business and creative tips for designers so you can work smarter and stay creativeGet inspired by a real career change and pursue your passion for designCheck out the show notes >>> Expert’s Insights on Transitioning to Interior Design Career With Alison GieseNEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spotJoin the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(01:45) Alison's Journey into Interior Design(05:26) Balancing Law School and Design Passion(07:22) Design Education and Business Learning Gaps(09:34) The Interior Design Business Launch Pad(11:11) Alison's Design Philosophy(14:25) Diversifying Revenue Streams(16:39) On Starting Her Design Career Solo(19:28) Favorite Project: The Unicorn(21:34) Balancing Creativity and Business(25:49) Tools and Software for Business Efficiency(27:04) Advice to Aspiring Designers

Are you worried about getting through those tough first two years of your interior design business? Most new businesses fail in this critical period, but yours doesn't have to!In this episode, I share practical strategies to help you become profitable more quickly. I walk you through actionable steps for building a strong network, creating an impressive portfolio even with no prior experience, creating service packages that attract first-time customers, and leveraging your connections to find your initial projects. I explain exactly how to make yourself visible in the market. Plus, I share my journey of gradually building my business while working full-time before transitioning to independence.Profitability typically takes about two years, but with the right approach, patience, and consistent effort, you can overcome the challenges of your first two years and build a successful design career.Whether you're just starting or struggling to gain traction, this episode will help you build momentum. Also, join the waitlist for my upcoming Launch Your Business Bootcamp, where I'll personally guide you through setting up your design business - your ticket to turning your creative dreams into a profitable reality.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Get a step-by-step guide to generate your first clients with zero experienceGain the motivation and practical knowledge to overcome common startup challengesEvaluate your profitability and create a plan to potentially speed up the two-year timelineCheck out the show notes >>> Strategies to Become Profitable in Your First Two Years as an Interior DesignerLinks Mentioned:Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DesignCurious for 40% offNEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist ⁠Launch Your Business Bootcamp⁠ to secure your spotJoin the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: [email protected]: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(01:36) Profitability as a New Interior Designer(04:04) Building Your Network(09:34) Creating a Portfolio Without Clients(11:43) Business Development Strategies(14:14) Financial Considerations(14:56) The Launch Your Business Bootcamp(15:53) Mindset for Success