EP 034 | Are Show Houses Worth It for Interior Designers? with Sarah Kidder

November 15, 2017

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Should you say yes to every show house opportunity?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Sarah Kidder about the realities of participating in show houses and charity design projects. While these opportunities can raise your profile and expand your network, they also require a significant investment of time, money, and resources. Sarah shares insights to help designers evaluate whether a project aligns with their goals and business strategy.

For interior designers considering a show house project, this episode offers practical advice on maximizing the benefits while avoiding common pitfalls.

In this episode, we learn:
• Some of the challenges and rewards of working on collaborative design projects
• Why setting clear goals before participating leads to better outcomes
• How to evaluate the financial and time investment required for a show house
• Why visibility alone isn’t always enough to justify participation
• How strategic opportunities can support business growth and brand awareness
• Why every marketing opportunity should be measured against your business objectives

 

Take Aways

Sarah recommends stretching yourself by taking on a show house or charity house when the opportunity arises. Even if you are a little nervous and having done it before.

Kimberley recommends that you set an intention before you agree to appear at a home show or tackling a show house.

Take a Virtual Tour of the CHEO Dream Home 2017.

DESIGN INTERVENTION

Sarah’s tips for getting ahead:

  1. When opportunity knocks, say yes. It’s ok to be scared. Do it anyway. You’ll grow into the new area if you take risks.
  2. When you meet a new client and they ask about fees, state them confidently by looking that person right in the eyes. Don’t waver. Don’t blink. Let them know you are worth it. Even if others go for free or charge less, you don’t! You are telling them your value and your value is not zero.

Sarah Kidder always strives to give her clients truly unique, customized spaces.  She is known for her rare ability to work within any design style, and her brave use of colour, pattern, and texture.

With over 13 years experience in the Ottawa design industry, Sarah has worked on countless residential, small commercial, and corporate projects, giving each one an original look reflective of those living, or working, in the space.

Sarah, a formally trained decorator, is a 7-times consecutive winner of the HomeStars “Best Of” Award, an award based on stellar customer service.  Most recently, her designs have won 3 NKBA Design Excellence Awards.

Working within a team of trusted contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers, Sarah is able to offer her clients exclusive products, personalized service, and most importantly, a low-stress, fun-filled design experience.

www.sarahkidderdesign.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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