FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I work with custom design, there are no two items alike. For example, shutters are more expensive that blinds. Dust ruffles are more expensive than a pillow. Draperies have numerous styles from simple to elaborate. It is on a project by project basis. A custom sofa with quality cushions and fabric is much better that something at a "pre chosen fabric furniture store". So there cannot be a one price fits all situations. I go out to the home and measure when I am doing furniture and windows in the home, and in some cases an installer may need to come out and measure, esp. blinds and shutters or roman shades. For Staging, the pricing goes by square feet and the amount of items in a home. There are estimates, and that I go over with you at the initial consultation. Most of my work is custom.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I just got back from Jacksonville getting nationally certified in staging (and redesign which is what my specialty is). I recently went to one of my vendors and took a continuing education class on carpeting. Early on I was told you either have it or you do not have a design ability, I believe, as long as we have a vision, the rest is easy. I particularly love redesign, (working with what you already have and adding to it to make it fabulous).
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I went to college in New Orleans where I studied art and drama, and attended a private art school in Florida. I have been interested in art all my life. I know how to paint a painting as well as pick a wall color or fabrics. I have a love of fine arts and luckily I have been able to travel to Europe and Asia as well as all over the United States. This shows in my interior design style. I came upon my design ability quite by accident. Even though I originally wanted to pursue fine arts I worked in Banking and as a sales rep for a national company. When I got married and moved to Japan I hired an interior designer, she told me that the only thing she could advise me to do was to become a designer myself when I got back to the U.S. That is what I did.