Lessons Learned [A Beginners GUIDE for new Interior Designers]

Tiffanie Bleu Bridal

Over the years, Ive had quite a few ladies reach out to me inquiring on shadowing, interning, or looking for advice with starting their own business. Since Ive always worked full-time in other roles while having my business, I haven’t really had the time to divulge my experiences in depth. Ive given small bits of advice here and there when I can but I wanted to write a snippet on what Ive learned so far in this industry.

In my opinion, there are things in life you can’t teach…design being one of them. Im not trying to ruffle any feathers but truly, you can go to school for a few years and hold a degree and that won’t make you a great Interior Designer. Learning fundamentals sure but largely, Interior Design is a form of art. Art is subjective and creative. You can’t learn creativity; it’s something you’re born with and continue to develop over time. That being said I may be biased as a self-taught designer :)

Owning a business and working for a firm are two very different things. If your goal is to work for a firm you will of course need to hold a license. I never considered this because Ive always taken side projects without the intention of going full-time.

It's important to know going in, you’re not going to be everyone’s cup of tea and that’s ok. Not everyone is going to be yours either. Ive had clients I wouldn’t care to have again and others that turned to life-long friends.

In fact, my best friend started as a design client and I can say with certainty, my life would not be the same without her! Nevertheless, Im thankful for both sides of the coin because they’ve taught me how to optimize my business.

You may say yes to every job that comes your way in the beginning but you will get to a point where you’ll want to choose who you take on too. If a client is seeking you out, it’s because they already know your value and want you for the job. There was a long time where I didn’t realize this and the constant, (“something-to-prove”) Imposter Syndrome mindset set in. Eventually, it led to undercharging for time and labor which caused burnout.

Once you gain the experience, you’ll know your value. Interior design is a luxury service; an accoutrement. Im not insinuating you price yourself out of the market but charge accordingly for your time. If you don’t charge hourly or by the square foot and go with a flat rate, make sure to base it off your experience and the average time it will take for you to complete the work. Quoting your work will get easier with time.

It can be a tough industry to crack and success largely depends on the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to grow your business as well as location. I opened my business solely on passion because I love creating spaces that tell a story. Having done both commercial and residential work, I chose to specialize in commercial because I love the freedom that comes with it and the ability to create a space that encompasses a brand aesthetic.

If you’re considering a business in interior design, it’s important for you to reflect on the bigger picture because it’s your livelihood, time, and craft. Just like any other entrepreneur, your name and reputation are attached to a final product; make sure it's something you can be proud of and always be open to change/improve. Don’t worry if the market is saturated, no one else will be able to produce results just like you. Your goal should be to create a brand that’s consistent and unique with the ability to diversify and provide clients a look that fits their aesthetic. Most importantly, If you're in it for the right reasons then you can’t lose.