EP 008 | How Interior Designers Get Media Exposure with Karl Lohnes

May 9, 2017

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Great design work alone isn’t always enough to build a recognizable brand.

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with designer, television personality, and media expert Karl Lohnes about how interior designers can create opportunities in television, print, radio, and other forms of media. Karl shares lessons from his own career journey and explains why visibility, persistence, and a willingness to say “yes” can open doors you never imagined.

For interior designers who want to expand their reach, build authority, and attract new opportunities, this episode offers practical advice on navigating the world of media and personal branding.

In this episode, we learn:
• Why a “yes first” attitude can create unexpected media opportunities
• How television, print, and other media can strengthen your brand and credibility
• Practical tips for getting published and landing your first media appearances
• Why local media exposure can be just as valuable as national recognition
• The personal and professional traits that contribute to a successful media career
• How Karl Lohnes eventually earned the opportunity to work alongside one of his design heroes, Martha Stewart
• The importance of the “30-minute rule” when building relationships with television hosts and media professionals

 

Take Aways

There are effective ways to get the media to notice you and to get that coveted spot in a magazine.

  1. Pitch to everyone on the mast head. And spell names correctly!
  2. Be easy to work with and accommodating. Don’t throw up any obstacles.
  3. Know the magazine you are soliciting and fit your pitch to match that style.
  4. Use a photographer who regularly works with the magazine you want to be featured in.

 

The Washington Post and Arizona Times have called him the ‘Dr. Phil of Decorating’ for a very good reason; Karl Lohnes speaks a language of stylish, no-nonsense decorating and entertaining ideas for homeowners whether it be on radio or television, at home shows or in his written articles for newspapers and magazines.

Karl reached millions of enthusiastic viewers for eight years by appearing as the decorating expert on America’s This Small Space on HGTV (152 episodes), is one of the founding magazine editors of Canada’s Style at Home and was the décor expert for CTV’s Canada AM for 8 years.

Karl has worked as a media ambassador for many well-known brands including KitchenAid, Philips, Starbucks, Nespresso, Silestone and has been published and featured on almost every newspaper, magazine and on daytime television shows in North America. Karl currently freelances for magazines and newspapers while taking this year to write his first decorating book.

He can be seen on television as an ambassador to many company brands, designing home décor products/furniture and continues to decorate for clients.

www.thekarllohnesdaily.com

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.

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