#104 | Take a Look Inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint with Esther Ellard & Colleen Slack

 Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   "You don't have to build your business someone else's way—you get to build it around your values, your lifestyle, and the way you actually want to live."   What if the biggest shift in your business doesn't come from working harder, but from getting clearer about what actually matters to you? In this episode, I'm joined by two longtime Designer's Oasis members, Esther Allard and Colleen Slack, for an honest conversation about building an interior design business that feels profitable, aligned, and sustainable.   We talk about the power of community, the importance of setting boundaries, and how defining success for yourself can completely change the way you run your business. Esther shares how a painful client experience became the catalyst for stronger boundaries, better pricing, and a business built around her faith and family. Colleen shares how she evolved her firm over time and stepped into a more differentiated brand by incorporating human design and nervous system regulation into her design process.   This conversation is such a powerful reminder that there is no one right way to build a successful interior design business. The goal isn't to copy someone else's formula. It's to create a business that supports your values, your lifestyle, and the work you want to be known for. If you've been craving more clarity, more confidence, or more support as you grow, this episode will remind you that you do not have to figure it all out alone. In this episode, we cover: Why community matters so much for interior designers, especially solopreneurs How hearing other designers' perspectives can help you make better business decisions Esther's journey from staging to interior design and the client experience that changed everything How difficult projects can become turning points instead of reasons to quit Why stronger boundaries often lead to better clients and a healthier business How Colleen built a design business that reflects her values and unique strengths What it looked like to integrate human design and nervous system regulation into her firm Why there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success in interior design How core desired feelings can help shape your business model and decisions Why profitability and lifestyle do not have to be in conflict How to reverse engineer your business around the life you actually want The role of accountability, shared wisdom, and support inside a strong design community   If you're ready to build a design business that supports your life — not the other way around — I'd love to invite you inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint + Membership. Inside, we help designers refine their processes, strengthen their pricing and positioning, and build profitable businesses with the support of a thoughtful, collaborative community. Doors are open through March 22, so if this conversation resonated with you, now is the perfect time to learn more and join us.   Mentioned in this episode:  DOORS ARE OPEN through March 22nd! - Join Today! Interior Designer's Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/look-inside-interior-designers-business-blueprint

Imposter syndrome gets tossed around constantly in the design world — but what if it's not a syndrome… it's just a temporary feeling (and one we can learn to move through)?   In this episode, we unpack why "imposter syndrome" might be the wrong label, how it can turn into an excuse that keeps you stuck, and what to do when those thoughts show up mid-project, mid-pivot, or mid-big-decision.   We talk about the difference between filling real knowledge gaps (skills, systems, confidence builders) and rewiring your inner dialogue (self-talk, visualization, affirmations, community support). If you've ever questioned whether you "belong" because you don't have the "right" credentials, background, or path — this one is your reminder: you're allowed to build success in a way that fits your life. In this episode, we cover: 👉 Why we should stop pathologizing imposter syndrome (and what to call it instead) 👉 "Imposter feelings" vs. an identity you carry around 👉 How imposter talk can quietly become an excuse for staying small 👉 What to do when comparison spirals start while scrolling Instagram 👉 The power of the right next step (instead of needing a 5-year plan) 👉 Practical tools: visualization, affirmations, asking for support, and reflecting on hard things you've already done 👉 Why confidence matters in hard client conversations (especially budget conversations) 👉 How community helps you move through self-doubt faster   Join the Business Blueprint Reset If you're feeling stuck, heavy, or like your business requires more effort than it should, Kate invites you to the Business Blueprint Reset — a 4-day experience designed to help you get quiet, reconnect with what matters, and uncover what's really driving your stress or indecision. Visit designersoasis.com/reset to learn more and register.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN the waitlist - Doors open early March: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Register for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12th PODCAST: Episode 26: Raising Your Design Fees Without the "Ick" PODCAST: Episode 28: How Limiting Beliefs Might Be Holding You Back PODCAST: Episode 30: The Perfectionism Trap Daniel House Club Curated Collection 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/imposter-syndrome

 Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   Creativity isn't just for "artsy" people — it's a key part of being a great designer, problem-solver, and business owner. In this episode, we talk about what creativity actually is (hint: it's not just painting or making something pretty), why stress can shut it down, and how wellness, community, and novelty can help you reconnect with the part of you that sees possibilities.   We also explore why so many high-achieving designers struggle to make time for creativity "just because," how chronic stress can narrow your thinking, and why small changes — like coworking, taking a different route home, or putting yourself in the "path of awe" — can unlock new ideas and energy.   Plus, I share a personal shift I've noticed over the last few years: as my health improved (sleep, alcohol-free living, stress support), my creativity came back online in a way that made me feel like a better designer, leader, and human.   In this episode, we cover: Why creativity isn't a personality trait — it's something you can nurture A simple definition of creativity: making new connections How stress (especially chronic stress) impacts creativity and problem-solving The role of community (and "body doubling") in focus and creative momentum Ways to support your nervous system so creativity feels more accessible The power of novelty, awe, and art (creating or observing) to spark ideas Practical tools I love: Insight Timer, Oura Ring, and tapping Join the Business Blueprint Reset If you're feeling stuck, heavy, or like your business requires more effort than it should, Kate invites you to the Business Blueprint Reset — a 4-day experience designed to help you get quiet, reconnect with what matters, and uncover what's really driving your stress or indecision. Visit designersoasis.com/reset to learn more and register.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN the waitlist - Doors open early March: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Register for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12th Book: Your Brain on Art Apps/Tools: Insight Timer, The Tapping Solution, Oura Ring PODCAST: Going Alcohol Free - Listen here! 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/nurturing-creativity-for-interior-designers

"Sometimes we think one thing is the goal, but as we start moving through it, it shifts and pivots. The goal might stay the same—but the how can change."   In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful (and often uncomfortable) parts of entrepreneurship: pivoting. Whether you're evolving your services, redefining success, or quietly questioning whether the path you're on still fits, this conversation is a reminder that change isn't failure—it's growth.   Here's a glance at this episode… 👉 Why pivoting isn't failure—but often a sign of growth and deeper alignment 👉 How to recognize when you're forcing yourself into someone else's version of success 👉 The importance of clarifying your values before making big business decisions 👉 How seasonality (in life and in business) can shape your services and revenue model 👉 Why giving yourself permission to change may be the most strategic move you make   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN the waitlist: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Register for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12th, 2026   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/permission-to-pivot

  For Interior Designers Who Want Profit, Peace, and Portfolio-Worthy Projects Doors are open for the Interior Designers Business Blueprint 2.0 Course and the Designer's Oasis Membership - find out more here! Doors Close September 30th! 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis  

What is most important is that you start to recognize the value of your time. Discovering the value of your time includes understanding how important it is to manage, control, and protect it while still remaining flexible as a business owner. In today's episode, we dive deep into time-saving tips tailored specifically for interior designers that will help you handle minor inefficiencies so that you can spend your time in your zone of genius and the areas that are revenue-generating. We'll cover the top areas that tend to take up time - sourcing, email management, and general time management. Here's a glance at this episode… I share my top 6 productivity hacks for sourcing including how I use SketchUp, buying groups, and vendors to streamline my design processes. I share how I have created a trade directory over time, how I handle shipping rates, and the method behind how I organize my materials library. I dive into my top 4 tips for managing your email without getting stuck in the rabbit hole of checking email all the time. I discuss how I use automation, time blocking, time tracking, and extensions/add-ons within Google to streamline my processes and my calendar. I share with you how I protect my "white space" so that I can have dedicated deep work time. I share my best tips for creating SOPs, managing meeting scheduling, and communicating with my clients and team. Mastering the art of time management and creating more space for true productivity and creativity is crucial for achieving success as an interior design business owner. By implementing strategies such as whitespace scheduling, leveraging productivity tools, and embracing efficient communication methods, you can enhance your productivity, reduce stress, and ultimately achieve your business and design goals with greater ease and efficiency. So, whether you're a solopreneur or part of a growing team, investing in effective time management practices can help to create the space you need to do your best work while also increasing your revenue and time for your personal life. Mentioned in this episode:  Blog Post: How to Organize Your Materials Library Blog Post: Makeover Your Week with Timeblocking Blog Post: How to Capture Systems with Loom Shop: Email Template Suite Join Sketchup - SketchUp Join Danielle House Club  Join Designer's Inc. Check out Design Trade Service Start using Boomerang for Email Dubsado Honeybook Use this Visual Timer: Time Timer Start using Loom for Video Recording FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership Sign up for The Brief today! 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/20-time-saving-tips-for-interior-designers    

Want to have better proposals? Start with delivering better consultations. Consultations are the first step in working with your client and the better experience they have, the more likely they will want to work with you Here's a glance at the episode: I discuss how to effectively set expectations for your clients from the beginning - even before the consultation begins.  I share how I prepare for a consultation and what I typically do in terms of paperwork, research, and getting to know the potential client(s). I share with you some of the little nuances that I have picked up along the way that help you to make  a great first impression.  I go through how I get more information about the lifestyle of the client and what they are looking to feel in their home and how they entertain to get a full picture. I discuss how I treat the consults as a "mini-design" session to add value for my client where I share a few design solutions to allow them to see the possibilities, however big or small. I also use this time to explore the different surfaces and revisit the budget to present a solid proposal. I share how I wrap up the session and remind the client of their options moving forward. Mentioned in this episode:  Episode #5-  How to Create a Successful Client Welcome Packet My favorite tape measure  JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Sign up for The Brief today! 🎯 Learn More: Designer's Oasis Membership - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis designersoasis.com/episode/53Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/53

Today we are putting pen to paper and talking all about the benefits of hiring for your interior design business. I am passionate about this and feel strongly that every interior designer should have at least one assistant. Here's a glance at this episode… I dive right into why most designers get stuck on hiring and understanding how they would utilize an assistant. I share how having an assistant can help your business - what can they help with? How will it uplevel the client experience? I run through an exercise with you all about how to figure out all that you do plus what you should be doing yourself! I go through an exercise to sort out what is fulfilling about your career and what lights you up. I share my real-life experiences with moving my business across the country twice and how I have used a wide array of assistants and employees. We run through examples of tasks that an assistant can help with during the interior design process and imagine what you could do with the time you gain back to really focus on and grow your business. Mentioned in this episode:  PODCAST: Episode #9: How Hiring Can Help your Bottom Line PODCAST: Episode #34: 5 Signs it's Time to Hire BOOK: Traction  by Gino Wickman BOOK: Rocket Fuel by Gino Wikman and Mark Winters JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Sign up for The Brief today! 🎯 Learn More: Designer's Oasis Membership - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/35

You might not always be able to change their minds but if you can look into why a client isn't moving forward with your services, you can find out where you're losing a client and if it's something that you can adjust in your business. In this episode, I'll dive into the 5 reasons why clients aren't moving ahead with you that I've learned over time with tracking and small changes. Here's a glance at this episode… We talk about what happens when you go through with sending off the proposal and then crickets…… We talk about the important things to remember when a client chooses not to use your services. I dive into the 5 reasons why you may hitting a deadend with prospective clients (after making these mistakes myself!) I chat about how to "cast the vision" effectively and help them see the end result and what they are really after.  I share how to use your clients own words to help them feel validated and understood within your proposal. I dive into how to address your potential clients internal pain points rather then just those external pain points they may share. One of the tools we offer inside the Designers Oasis Membership is the CEO Dashboard which includes a Conversion calculator. The conversion calculator can help you see where prospective clients may be falling off.  This is a key metric to track in your business because. Once you can identify that, then you know where you need to improve your process.  If this sounds like something you'd like to have in your business, headover to Designer's Oasis to learn more about joining Mentioned in this episode:  PODCAST: Episode #23: 6 Ways to Research your Client's Pain Points JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Sign up for The Brief today! 🎯 Learn More: Designers Oasis Membership - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/31

Aim for excellence and know that perfection is impossible. I want excellence in my business and for projects to be complete and done extremely well, but perfect just won't always happen. Trust me, I get it! I've found that I have been a victim of the perfectionist trap for way too long and am just recently figuring out just how much this has held me back. We are exposed to the pain-free narratives of others while acutely feeling and experiencing our own struggles. Getting to where you want to be is a set of stairs where you are taking one imperfect step at a time. In this episode, we answer questions like… How to start moving forward and get out of the perfectionism trap. How to stop comparing yourself and get more done! Strategies you need to start dealing with perfectionism within yourself. Resources mentioned in this episode:  Dubsado - use designersoasis20 for 20% off! More on Adam Grant JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Sign up for The Brief today!   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/30