The Business of Beautiful Spaces, Interior Design Podcast

Send us a textREPLAY:Starting off a presentation on the right foot is key.An interior design presentation package should be a visually engaging and comprehensive set of documents and visual aids that communicate the designer's ideas and concepts clearly and effectively to clients.By incorporating a range of visual and interactive elements into their presentation package, interior designers can elevate their presentations and help clients better understand and appreciate their designs. The key is to use the elements that best suit the project and the client's needs, and to communicate the design in a clear, compelling way.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textn this inspiring episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, Laura chats with Laurie Laizure, founder of the Interior Design Community and host of the To-The-Trade Podcast. Laurie is a connector, a cheerleader for designers everywhere, and a true thought leader in the interior design industry. With over 94,000 members worldwide, IDC has become a trusted space for designers to share, learn, laugh, and grow—especially during times of industry change.Together, Laurie and Laura dive into the power of community, how designers can lean into connection and collaboration, and why Laurie believes that no matter where you're from—Boston or Bangladesh—we're all navigating similar challenges. From tech tools and social media to global trends and daily struggles, this episode is packed with encouragement and insights to help you feel supported, inspired, and ready to keep building your beautiful design business.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why community is essential for the future of interior designHow IDC has evolved and adapted with the industryThe biggest challenges facing designers today—and how to overcome themThe value of authentic connection in a digital worldTips for staying informed, inspired, and supported as a designerConnect with Laurie Laizure:Instagram: @interiordesigncommunityWebsite: www.interiordesigncommunity.comPodcast: To-The-Trade PodcastMentorship One on One :https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/mentorshipThe Business of Beautiful Spaces Presets:https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/preset-collectionThe Profit Academy for Interior Designers Online Course:https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textThis episode couldn't be more timely. As many of us are navigating a major shift in our businesses—grappling with pricing pressures, uncertain clients, and the ever-growing noise around tariff talks—it can be hard to stay positive, charge what we're truly worth, and hold firm on the value we bring. That's why I'm so excited to welcome today's guest, Andrea Liebross.Andrea is a business and mindset coach who works with unapologetically ambitious women entrepreneurs across a variety of industries—women just like you and me, who are juggling the complexities of life, business, and big dreams. She's also the host of the Time to Level Up podcast and author of the upcoming book She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman's Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary, coming out this fall.Andrea has helped nearly 10,000 women shift from stuck to unstoppable by blending big-picture thinking with the kind of systems and strategies that create time, money, and energy freedom. Today, she's here to help us break through the messy middle, stay grounded in our value, and continue building businesses that don't just survive—but truly thrive. Let's dive in.Website: https://andrealiebross.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textElle is an avid reader, ocean lover and Brit-girl born to travel. She's also obsessed with helping interior designers stand out and get paid. Elle spent 10 years writing for luxury magazines, and today she blends rich storytelling and editorial design into results-driven websites for interior designers. She lives in Hong Kong and has two kids and a very naughty chihuahua. Follow Elle on Instagram at @imellekwan or contact her through her website at https://ellekwan.com/servicesGet Elle's 3-step project-booking process and email templates here:  https://ellekwan.myflodesk.com/powerhouseportfolioBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn today's episode, we're diving into a topic that so many interior designers and decorators wrestle with—how to get help without the pressure of hiring full-time staff. I'm joined by the incredible Ronniesha Rivera, founder of Vetted by Design, who specializes in helping creatives streamline their businesses with the support of skilled virtual assistants.We'll explore how VAs can become a powerful extension of your team—allowing you to delegate with confidence, reclaim your time, and finally loosen the grip on those tasks you just don't need to do yourself. Whether you're overwhelmed by admin, struggling with social media, or simply looking to grow without burnout, Ronniesha shares practical tips and real talk on how to make virtual support work for your business. You don't want to miss this one!Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn this heartfelt and unfiltered episode, Laura sits down with Carly Nemtean — Principal Designer of Carriage Lane Design Build and Co-Founder of The Collective Workspace — for a real conversation about what many designers are feeling behind the scenes. From navigating the post-COVID slowdown to dealing with tariff challenges and shifting client expectations, Carly and Laura talk candidly about the emotional and financial realities of running a design business right now. This episode is a reminder that if you're feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, you're not alone — and there's power in sharing the journey.website: https://www.thecollectiveto.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecollectiveworkspace/

Send us a textWelcome to today's episode, where we're diving into the powerful partnership between interior designers and trusted vendors—and how that collaboration can elevate not just your design vision, but your bottom line. Joining us is Idilia Lucente, Sales Manager at Decor-Rest, a family-run Canadian furniture company known for their commitment to quality, customization, and the kind of customer care that makes doing business feel more like working with family.With over four decades of experience and deep Italian roots, Decor-Rest has earned a reputation for award-winning, bench-made upholstered furniture that blends timeless craftsmanship with the latest trends. From sourcing exclusive fabrics across the globe to tailoring each piece with precision, Decor-Rest offers designers a one-stop solution for custom luxury that's both stylish and smart. Idilia brings her passion for building relationships and supporting designers in creating beautiful, profitable spaces—with the added bonus of saving time, avoiding competitive shopping, and delivering peace of mind with Canadian-made quality and warranties that practically sell themselves.Whether you're an established designer or just starting out, this conversation will give you valuable insights into how partnering with a vendor like Decor-Rest can help you streamline your process, impress your clients, and build a more profitable business. Let's dive in!Website: https://www.decor-rest.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decorrest/

Send us a textIn this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I sit down with Ronniesha Armstead, founder and CEO of Vetted By Design, to tackle one of the most common questions in the design industry: How do you know when it's time to hire help? If you're feeling overwhelmed with admin work, spending more time managing orders than designing, or simply questioning if you need support—this episode is for you. We discuss how outsourcing tasks like accounting, renderings, AutoCAD drawings, and procurement can free up your time and boost profitability. Ronniesha shares how Vetted By Design simplifies the hiring process by connecting interior designers with pre-vetted professionals, making it easier than ever to get the help you need. Tune in to learn how a virtual design assistant could be the first step in scaling your business!Website: https://vetted-bydesign.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vettedbydesign/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textAs the visionary founder of Brenda Brix Consulting and AMR Design, Brenda leads an exceptional team, collaborating with ideal clients to transform her long-standing dreams into reality.  Despite facing health challenges and experiencing burnout early on, Brenda's transformative journey led her to create a streamlined and repeatable business structure that allows her the time and mental space to pursue her passions. Brenda has launched a furniture line, has projects across western Canada, and is thrilled to work with other interior designers to create a business supporting the life they want.  As an award-winning entrepreneur, Brenda offers invaluable insights and strategies, promoting collaboration over competition and an abundance mindset that fosters growth and unity. Committed to lifelong learning and giving back, Brenda seeks to pave the way for aspiring women in business by sharing her knowledge and expertise.Website: https://www.brendabrix.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textI'm excited to introduce you to Porsche Williams, the founder of The Prototype, a concierge service that helps interior designers streamline their businesses and elevate their client experience. Porsche specializes in providing unique, done-for-you gifting solutions that seamlessly integrate into a designer's process—going beyond the expected holiday season to create meaningful touchpoints throughout the client journey.In today's episode, we're diving into elevated gifting strategies for interior design firms—how and when to use gifting to strengthen relationships, reinforce your brand, and add a personal touch that sets your business apart. Porsche will share insights on selecting thoughtful, high-impact gifts that align with your firm's identity and client experience, as well as how The Prototype can handle the execution on your behalf. If you've ever wanted to incorporate gifting into your process but weren't sure where to start, this conversation will provide the clarity and strategy you need. https://www.theprototype.net/aboutBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Cathy Tonks, a seasoned interior designer who is transforming the industry with her innovative designer co-op. This collaborative workspace provides designers with shared office space, meeting rooms, and a full showroom featuring access to over 200 vendors. With the collective buying power of over 21 designers and growing, members gain exclusive discounts and vendor relationships that would be difficult to secure independently. Beyond the resources, Cathy has fostered a true design community where professionals can collaborate, learn, and grow through vendor presentations, idea-sharing, and ongoing support. We discuss how creating a strong design network can elevate your business, why community over competition is the future of the industry, and how this one-stop-shop concept is making waves. If you're ready to explore new ways to grow and connect as a designer, this episode is a must-listen!https://www.designswithyouinmind.net/abouthttps://www.instagram.com/designswithyouinmind/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textWhat does it take to build a design business that stands the test of time? In this episode, I sit down with Margaret Donaldson, a seasoned interior designer with over 30 years of experience, to uncover the key principles behind creating a sustainable, profitable, and long-lasting design firm. We discuss how to evolve with industry trends without losing your brand identity, the importance of client relationships, referrals, and reputation, and the strategies for growing and leading a strong, committed team. Margaret also shares her best advice on scaling, delegating, and staying inspired through the years, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives for decades. Whether you're just starting out or looking to solidify your firm's legacy, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you build a business that lasts!https://margaretdonaldsoninteriors.com/https://www.instagram.com/mdiluxurydesign/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textWhat's next in the world of interior design? In this episode, I sit down with Stacy Garcia, a globally recognized trend forecaster, product designer, and industry visionary, to explore the future of design and how interior designers can stay ahead of the curve.Stacy breaks down the 6 key design trends for 2025, sharing insights into the colors, materials, and styles that will define the industry in the coming year.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textFeeling busy but not productive? As interior designers, we juggle endless tasks—client meetings, site visits, vendor calls, and team management—while battling constant distractions. In this episode, I'm breaking down practical strategies to help you stay focused, eliminate distractions, and finally feel like you're making progress in your business.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm joined by sales specialist Nikki Rausch, a master in recognizing and responding to buying signals. With 25+ years of experience selling to prestigious organizations like The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and NASA, Nikki shattered sales records and received “top producer” awards along the way.Today, entrepreneurs and small business owners hire Nikki to show them how to sell successfully and authentically.Nikki has written 3 books, all available on Amazon. And she has a podcast called Sales Maven which you can find on your favorite podcast platform.instagram: @your_sales_mavenBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn this enlightening episode, we sit down with Lucy Lagana, a distinguished homeopath and holistic health expert who travels the world sharing her knowledge, including extended stays in exotic locales like the Maldives. Lucy, with her extensive background in homeopathic medicine, holistic nutrition, and allergy clearing, has been a crucial part of managing the host's health for over a decade. Today, we dive into the topic of cortisol—the notorious stress hormone—and its impact on women running their own interior design businesses. We explore how the multifaceted roles of business ownership can silently ramp up stress levels, affecting both mental and physical health. Lucy provides practical advice on recognizing the signs of elevated cortisol and shares non-medical strategies to manage and reduce its effects. Tune in to discover how you can start tuning into your body's needs with the same keen attention you give to your clients, making 2025 a year of health as well as success.Instagram: @lucylaganawebsite: www.rootstohealing.comBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a textIn this episode of Let's Talk About Goals, Your Why, and Building Your Legacy, we dive deep into the power of core values and Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs). Discover how clarifying your principles and aiming high can keep you aligned, guide your decisions, and ignite a sense of purpose in both your business and personal life. From overcoming psychological barriers to creating systems that support your vision, we explore practical ways to stay focused on what really matters—making an impact and laying the groundwork for a legacy that lasts.Whether you're an emerging entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this conversation is designed to help you shift your mindset from simply being a designer to becoming the visionary CEO of your firm. Learn how connecting with your “why” can propel you toward authentic growth, attract the right clients, and shape a thriving business. Tune in for insights that will empower you to dream bigger, work smarter, and design a future that's truly aligned with your core values.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode, we dive into why honing in on a specific niche can be the game-changer that helps interior designers stand out in a crowded marketplace. Rather than stretching yourself thin trying to appeal to everyone, we explore how narrowing your focus allows you to sharpen your expertise, streamline your marketing, and attract clients who truly value what you offer. From defining your unique strengths to crafting laser-focused messaging, we outline six compelling reasons why “going small” can yield big results for your design business.Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to refine your brand or a newcomer aiming to carve out your space in the industry, this conversation sheds light on how niching down fuels both creativity and profitability. Tune in to discover practical tips, real-world examples, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in the modern landscape of interior design.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Today's guest is Crispin Butterfield—an interior designer who has been running her own thriving design business for over two decades. We're going to dive into the ins and outs of building a successful firm: how she started from scratch, the moment she decided to grow her team, and the challenges she faced along the way. Now, with a wealth of experience under her belt, Crispin is dedicated to giving back to the interior design community, sharing her insights through mentoring, downloadable templates, and a host of other resources. I can't wait to learn from her journey and unique perspective. Her name is as cool as her story—let's get chatting with Crispin!Website: https://www.designlifeinc.caInstagram: @designlifeincBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Cathleen Barnes is a web strategist and designer with over a decade of experience in the corporate digital e-commerce world. Specializing in working with interior designers, she creates websites that go beyond stunning visuals to become true business tools.What sets Cathleen apart is her data-driven approach. By leveraging inspector tools and strategy maps, she ensures every website aligns perfectly with her clients' goals—whether it's attracting dream clients, increasing bookings, or streamlining processes.Cathleen's passion lies in showing interior designers how a thoughtful, strategic website can transform their business. She has helped designers boost their online visibility and client conversion rates through personalized strategies that deliver real, measurable results.Website: https://www.cathleenbarnesconsulting.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathleenbarnesconsulting/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode, we dive into the essential process of determining your hourly rate as an interior designer. Whether you charge by the hour, use flat fees, or quote per project, understanding your hourly rate is crucial for accurate pricing and profitability. We cover everything you need to consider, from your geographic area, ideal client, and level of service to business expenses, desired salary, and profit margins. Learn how to calculate your rate, track your time, and avoid common pricing mistakes to ensure your design business thrives. Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

 As interior designers, we know how critical communication is when working with clients. From the very first meeting to the final reveal, clear and empathetic communication can make or break a project. And let's be honest, we've all had those stressful moments—when things don't go according to plan, or clients are uncertain or overwhelmed.Well, today, we're diving into just that! I'm joined by two incredible guests—Alison Maratos, a Clinical Director and Registered Social Worker, and her sister Sarah St. Amand, who brings her unique perspective to the table. Together, they'll share how we can create environments of trust, understanding, and clean communication with our clients.We're going to talk about values, scripting, mental checklists, and maybe even some physical ones—tools that can help us stay grounded and effective in our interactions, especially when the pressure's on. So grab a coffee, take a seat, and get ready to connect with your clients like never before in 2025. You'll leave this episode with practical tips to build stronger relationships, and hopefully, a little less stress along the waySarah St. Amand: @Sarahst.amandinteriordesignAllison Maratos: https://maratoscounselling.com/team/alison-maslin-maratos/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this reflection episode, Laura Thornton looks back on the highlights and lessons learned in 2024, including the success of aging-in-place bathroom projects and the challenges faced in the design business. She discusses the importance of visibility, experimenting with Instagram reels and interactive content to connect with clients and fellow designers. Laura emphasizes the profitability of smaller projects like custom drapery and furniture and the value of tracking profit margins. She also encourages designers to educate clients early on timelines and set clear expectations. In closing, Laura expresses heartfelt gratitude for the support and engagement from listeners throughout the year, motivating her to continue delivering valuable content into 2025.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I'm joined by Nina Urzi, a powerhouse who transitioned from the tech industry to transform her family's overwhelmed construction business into a thriving 8-figure company. With her background in corporate HR, sales, and marketing, Nina leveraged her expertise to implement systems, streamline processes, and build a successful construction business with more than 20 employees.Now, as a stand-in COO for construction companies aiming to scale, Nina shares her unique perspective on how designers—especially women—can navigate the construction job site with confidence and authority. From building strong relationships with contractors to communicating effectively and handling challenges head-on, Nina's advice is invaluable for anyone working in this space.Whether you're new to construction or looking to refine your approach, Nina's story and insights will leave you inspired and equipped to thrive on the job site.Links & Resources:Connect with Nina Urzi: Website Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this podcast episode, we explore how niching down can help interior designers thrive in a competitive industry. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, focusing on a specific audience allows you to sharpen your marketing focus, create meaningful connections, and position yourself as an expert. By identifying your strengths, passions, and the clients you enjoy working with most, you can align your business with a niche that's both fulfilling and profitable. We discuss six key benefits of targeting smaller markets, from crafting stronger pitches and smarter spending to building trust and a distinct brand identity. This focused approach simplifies your marketing efforts, maximizes your impact, and lays the foundation for sustainable growth, empowering you to create deeper connections with the right clients while building a business you love.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we're focusing on how to work smarter, not harder in 2025. As your design business grows, so do the demands on your time, energy, and resources. Streamlining your business isn't just about saving time—it's about creating a sustainable, profitable operation that delivers exceptional results for your clients without burning you out.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The importance of implementing project management tools to streamline workflowsHow outsourcing and delegating tasks can free you up for creativity and growthProven strategies for managing client expectations and keeping projects on trackTips for reducing bottlenecks and avoiding unnecessary delays in your projectsHow streamlining improves client satisfaction and boosts your bottom lineBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we dive into the ins and outs of professional photoshoots for your interior design projects. From understanding the costs and time commitments to navigating usage rights and creating the perfect shot list, this episode covers everything you need to know to make the most of your photography investment.I also share my personal experiences with photoshoots, including the challenges of working around outdated focal points or less-than-ideal lighting, and how I overcame these obstacles by creating custom photography presets. These presets are designed to elevate your iPhone photos, ensuring consistency and professional-quality enhancements for your portfolio and social media.For a limited time, you can grab my photography presets at 40% off using the code BLACKFRIDAY40. Visit The Profit Academy for Interior Designers website to purchase them and take your design photography to the next level!What You'll Learn in This Episode:The true costs of professional photoshoots (beyond the photographer's fee)Time commitments, including setup, styling, and teardownHow to plan a photoshoot: creating shot lists, selecting props, and moreThe importance of clarifying photo usage rights and credits with photographersStrategies for subsidizing photoshoot costs with client purchasesWhy and how to use presets to enhance your photosWhether you're just starting out or looking to streamline your photoshoot process, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you showcase your beautiful work and grow your design business.Links & Resources:Photography Presets: Get them here and use code BLACKFRIDAY40 for 40% offConnect with Laura Thornton: Website | InstagramBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we dive into strategic planning for a profitable 2025. Laura shares essential steps for setting actionable business goals, including assessing expenses, determining project requirements, balancing consultations and larger projects, setting clear goals, and aligning marketing efforts to attract profitable projects. She also discusses her own goals for the coming year, focusing on desirable projects like lake houses and cottages. For those looking to deepen their financial strategies, Laura offers a special Black Friday promotion on The Profit Academy for Interior Designers. Use code BLACKFRIDAY40 for 40% off the core 6-week course content—an invaluable investment to make 2025 your best year yet!https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode, we dive into the advantages of having a dedicated design studio and how it can elevate your business. From projecting a more professional image and enhancing client trust, to showcasing your style and creativity in a real-world space, a studio offers unique benefits that go beyond what a home office can provide. We'll explore how a studio can streamline your workflow, eliminate household distractions, and give you quick access to samples and resources. Plus, with a controlled environment for presentations and a hub for industry networking, a design studio becomes an invaluable investment in your brand and productivity.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Today, we're talking about one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of running a design business: contracts. I'm thrilled to have Erica Canas, Esq., a Florida licensed attorney and interior design enthusiast, join us for this important conversation.Erica is the founder of ID Law Shop, where she creates “best-practices” legal templates specifically for interior designers and architects. Her journey began when she couldn't find legal templates that were actually tailored for her clients. She saw outdated forms, generic templates, and resources that weren't created by real lawyers. With 16+ years of contract drafting experience under her belt, she's made it her mission to provide legal resources that are actually useful for interior designers.From contracts to intellectual property matters, Erica's expertise is vast. She also offers full-service copyright and trademark registration to protect your designs and branding assets. And if you're looking for custom drafting services, her flat-fee rates ensure you're protected without the fear of runaway legal fees.It's an important episode today as we discuss legal protection for designers, how to structure your contracts, and why having the right legal documents in place can protect your business and help it thrive. Let's dive in!Website: https://www.idlawshop.com/aboutBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Founder and CEO, Darla Powell, is an interior decorator herself and knows firsthand how to successfully market in this niche. After receiving countless requests from fellow designers for help with marketing their interior design firms, Darla saw a tremendous need for an agency well-versed and laser focused on marketing strategies and practices tailored specifically for designers and architects. The solution? Wingnut Social – an agency focused on the best digital marketing for interior designers, architects and related niches.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Douglas envisions Interior Designher as a community hub where designers can finally learn, share, rent or buy the business skills they should have learned in school. In addition to all sorts of free education resources - from people who know what they're talking about - Doug is collaborating with a few of our “experts” to create a series of no-cost / low-cost business tools to help designers improve their business quickly, dependably & at a ridiculously great price.Business expertise delivered at no/low cost. Business tools that enable a small team to operate like their corporate cousins. A well-planned & diligent social media strategy that builds brand effectively & at a low cost. Business owners & principal designers will be able to keep their focus on high-value tasks, while virtual & real-life employees can perform lower-value tasks efficiently & with ownership. Ever evolving software & global communications have truly leveled the playing field.  The only thing holding back the growth of our interior design firms is us.Douglas sees Interior DesignHer as that online space where interior designers feel welcomed, encouraged, motivated & empowered to take their the businesses to a higher level.Website: https://www.interiordesignher.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

With an eye for detail and a heart for storytelling and 19 years ​of experience, Paisley is a luxury interior designer known for ​blending cultural influences with timeless elegance. Her work spans from the Gold Coast of Australia to Oaxaca, ​Mexico, creating immersive spaces that evoke harmony and ​emotion. Paisley's global perspective and passion for ​storytelling through design leave a lasting mark on luxury ​interiors. When she is not globetrotting and obsessing over her clients ​interiors; you can find Paisley barefoot with a matcha in her ​hand in a sleepy costal town of Mexico where she spends time ​with her family.https://paisleygamble.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Amber Rose Thomas is the visionary founder of "Launch with Amber," a bespoke service designed to elevate the effectiveness of Facebook Ads for coaches, experts, and course creators worldwide. Disappointed by the subpar results her clients experienced with traditional ad agencies, Amber, a Facebook™ Blueprint Certified Ads Manager and a CIM-accredited marketing strategist, decided to leverage her extensive cross-industry experience to provide a superior alternative. Through "Launch with Amber," she offers comprehensive done-for-you Facebook Ads services, strategic launch planning, and in-depth training sessions, all tailored to meet the unique needs of her global clientele.email: hello@launchwithamber.comwebsite: https://www.launchwithamber.com/@launchwithamberBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Ashley is a passionate designer with two companies that create wonderful design outcomes: her interior design firm- AYI & Associates and her furniture company- Ashley Yeates. This designer and business owner wears many hats. But thanks to family and faith, this multitasking mom can stay grounded and continue to focus on her purpose. She is wanting to create an impact on the industry to think about quality craftsmanship, quality materials that are sustainable and are long lasting. Ashley is currently building her dream home with sustainable building materials and a team to promote her designs and furniture line and like-minded vendors. She is building her home to be showcase sustainable design and products that tackle the overconsumption of products that harm our planet.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Brittny is the founder and creative director for Homesmith Design, delivering her signature modern minimalist style. An entrepreneur at heart, Brittny started Homesmith Design as a solo passion project and has quickly grown it into a successful design studio serving clients across the country, while preserving the personalized service and experience of a small design shop.Profit Academy Coupon Code: LISTENER15https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Natalie Papier is an interior designer, art curator, and TV personality based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Natalie believes that meaningful design starts with art and that homes should be a reflection of the people who live in them, full of life, character, and warmth. She is a host of Magnolia Network's Artfully Designed, now in its second season, and has had numerous exciting brand partnerships over the years, including a lighting line with Mitzi and a wallpaper collection with Mitchell Black. Natalie's first book, Start with the Art, published by Voracious, an imprint of Little, Brown and Co, will be released on October 29, 2024.Instagram: @home_ec_opBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode we are talking to Suzanne Robson from Suzanne Robson Design located in Austrilia about the challenges involved in starting a second career in the interior design space along with running our own design businesses. Website: https://www.suzannerobsondesign.com.au/Instagram: @suzannerobsondesignProfit Academy: https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Rebecca Hay is known for her authentic, all-inclusive approach and has spent much of her design career building relationships with other designers and entrepreneurs. She has built a successful, 7 figure interior design business by trial and error, podcasts, online courses, and books. Over the last decade she has grown from an insecure student to having career false starts and now has finally landed where she wants to be.Rebecca's podcast is called Resilient by Design, it is a business podcast for like-minded career-driven women and entrepreneurs. Every week Rebecca shares the real stories behind growing her own design firm, the lessons she's learned and real-life takeaways to implement in your own business. She also shares the stories of other badass women whose resilience provides inspiration to women looking to grow their business and make an impact on the world.Rebecca's online course is called The Power of Process and you can learn more about her course here: https://rebeccahay.com/powerofprocess/Website: https://rebeccahay.com/offerings/Instagram: @rebeccahaydesignsBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this episode of "Let's Talk About Using an Art Advisor to Enhance Interior Designs," Laura Thornton chats with Katharine Earnhardt from Mason Lane Art Advisory. Katharine shares her extensive experience and insights on how contemporary art can elevate interior spaces. She discusses the importance of selecting art that not only complements the design but also resonates with the client's personal style. Throughout the conversation, Katharine offers practical advice for interior designers on collaborating with art advisors to find those perfect pieces that complete a room and create a truly inspired space. This episode is a must-listen for designers looking to deepen their understanding of art integration in interior design.Website:https://www.masonlaneart.com/Instagram: @masonlane_artBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Designers questions are answered on the last Monday of the month. Send in your questions to get answered.More information on The Profit Academy for Interior Designers can be found here:https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we delve into the crucial shift from retail to wholesale sourcing for interior designers and decorators. We explore why embracing wholesale can dramatically increase profit margins, ensure project exclusivity, and reduce competitive price shopping. The episode provides a wealth of information on where to find reliable wholesale vendors, from trade shows and design districts to online platforms and professional associations. We also discuss the importance of networking, not just within the interior design community but across related industries like staging and event planning, to uncover diverse sourcing opportunities. Tune in to learn how to enhance your business model, ensure quality, and manage logistics effectively, all while stepping out of your comfort zone to ask the questions that open doors to new possibilities. Join us to transform your approach and maximize the profitability of your design projects.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Boutique PR agency founder committed to helping new and heritage brands achieve awareness through meaningful earned media placements. I launched ACPR in 2010 on a mission to do better PR. I now lead a small team who serves ~15 forward thinking, industry disrupting visionaries in the beauty, home, and lifestyle spaces.Website: https://allysonconklinpr.com/Instagram: @helloacprEmail: Hello@allysonconklinPR.comBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this engaging episode Laura is joined by Jason Shader Smith of MLH Agency, a fractional marketing and PR agency. They delve into the transformative potential of fractional marketing for interior design businesses. Jason unpacks how this approach provides scalable solutions and specialized strategies, offering the expertise of a full marketing team without the costs of full-time staff. Listeners will learn about the nuances of tailoring marketing efforts to attract affluent clients, effective PR tactics, and the power of digital presence. The episode is rich with real-world success stories and practical tips, making it a must-listen for designers eager to enhance their visibility and credibility in a competitive market. Jason also shares his insights on future marketing trends, ensuring listeners are well-prepared to stay ahead in the industry.Website: https://www.themlhagency.com/Instagram: @themlhagencyBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this month's interactive episode of "The Business of Beautiful Spaces," Laura Thornton dives into the most pressing questions from interior designers. From tackling complex project challenges to refining business strategies, Laura offers tailored advice and insights to elevate your design practice. Whether you're struggling with client communications, managing timelines, or optimizing your profit margins, this episode is your go-to resource. Have a burning question? Don't miss the chance to submit it and hear Laura's expert solutions live!Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Welcome to another episode of "Let's Talk Design," where we dive into the heart of interior design with the experts who shape our spaces. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a very special guest, Sarah St. Amand. With over 25 years of experience, Sarah has masterfully assembled a dynamic and creative team at Sarah St. Amand Interior Design. They specialize in modern transitional design, crafting stunning spaces across the Greater Toronto Area, Southern Ontario, Canada, and even the USA.Today, Sarah joins us to share her journey in the design world, discuss the common misconceptions, and explore how we, as seasoned designers, can leave a mark on the industry by not just designing spaces, but by designing lives. So, let's dive right in and get inspired, get cozy!It's a long one!Website: stamanddesign.comInstagram: @sarahst.amandinteriordesignBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Danielle Hayden is the Co-Founder and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. a bookkeeping and accounting firm that is on a mission to coach six figure (+ beyond) female entrepreneurs so they can better understand their numbers through bookkeeping, financial analysis, and support so they can grow profitable, sustainable and enjoyable businesses.With over 15 years experience in the world of finance, Danielle has worked her way from accounting firm intern to the Co-Founder of Kickstart Accounting. She understands how complex business finances can be, and she knows that entrepreneurs need more than just a bookkeeper; they need real financial analysis and support in order to get the confidence required to create the sustainable wealth they deserve. Danielle brings a unique perspective when it comes to providing business owners with “the total package” as it relates to their finances.She's has been a guest on multiple top-rated shows including, A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast, The How of Business and Female emPOWERED: Winning in Business & Life. She is also the host of the Business By the Books podcast.When Danielle isn't in her money mindset work you can find her hiking or spending time with her family.Links:                    Website: kickstartaccountinginc.com         Instagram: kickstart accounting         Linked In: danielle-hayden-kickstartaccounting        Free gift for podcast audiences: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/gift/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this exciting episode of "The Business of Beautiful Spaces," we are thrilled to welcome Stacey Cohen from Stacey Cohen Design and Design Your Business with Stacey Cohen Workshops. Stacey brings her wealth of experience from running a successful design firm for over 15 years and shares her journey in developing a comprehensive step-by-step guide to running a profitable and efficient design firm.Stacey Cohen has spent 15 years at the helm of her design firm, during which she meticulously crafted systems, processes, and templates to streamline her business operations. These tools have not only helped her build a loyal and committed team but also ensured the profitability and smooth running of her projects. Recognizing the challenges faced by new and growing design firms, Stacey created a two-day intensive course, "Design Your Business with Stacey Cohen," aimed at providing designers with the essential tools she wished she had in her early years.In this episode, Stacey shares insights into her journey and the evolution of her design firm. She provides an overview of the systems, processes, and templates she developed and explains how they can be implemented in your own firm. Stacey offers practical advice on starting and growing an interior design business and tips for managing a committed and loyal team. Additionally, she is offering all our listeners an exclusive 15% discount on her September workshop with the code: LAURA15.This episode is packed with valuable takeaways and connections that every designer can appreciate and implement in their own business. Whether you are just starting or looking to grow your existing firm, Stacey's insights will provide you with the tools and confidence to elevate your business. Don't miss out on the opportunity to attend Stacey Cohen's September workshop with an exclusive 15% discount using the code: LAURA15. This is your chance to gain access to the systems and processes that have made Stacey's firm a success.Instagram: @designyourbusinessbysc @staceycohendesignWebsite: https://www.designyourbusinessbysc.com/Discount Code: LAURA15Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Melissa is a former successful residential interior designer with over 25 years of industry experience. Since becoming a business coach 15 years ago, Melissa has worked with thousands of clients to dramatically boost their revenue and deliver more time for creative work through smart systems and proven processes. Most importantly, Melissa believes her clients deserve to have a creative business that informs and inspires, serves and supports, fuels, and feeds the whole of their lives.Website:https://melissagalt.com/Instagram: @melissagaltThe Profit Academy for Interior Designers:https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

This episode I am answering your questions!Last Monday of the month I will answer you questions, so send them in at info@thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.comThe Profit Academy for Interior Designers:https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber has more than a decade of experience helping small business owners maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most by improving their time management and elevating their productivity! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Small Business Straight Talk Podcast and creator of Leverage Lab®. Amber shares her message on her weekly podcast and as Straight Talks both virtually and in-person across the country for audiences that range from small business owners and associations to multinational corporations. 3 minute quiz: https://amberdelagarza.com/quiz/The Profit Academy for Interior Designers: https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign