What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am currently working on a masters in interior design along with CEU classes as they are available. I also travel to the furniture markets twice a year to see what is new in the industry.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I was a facilities manager and did quite a bit of commercial work and realized this was my calling. I returned to school, complete the undergraduate program and started practicing.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Residential that includes flooring, color selections, furniture, window treatments - all of it.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Have a list of questions you would like to discuss with the designer. Your first meeting should be about whether you can work with this person, are inspired by them, and see if your aesthetics match. The design process will be very personal and you need to make sure your designer understands you and your objectives. Have a budget in mind - this will help the designer present items that you can afford to include in your project. Make sure you are the right fit, focus on getting the best designer, not necessarily the best price.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Interior designers can often save a customer money over do-it-yourself decorating. Our training allows us to design rooms with the correct furniture placement and scale, thus avoiding costly mistakes. We're also able to procure goods and services below retail prices enabling us to share our discount.
