EP 036 | How Interior Designers Turn a Side Hustle into a Business with Brittany Chinaglia

November 29, 2017

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Can a side hustle become a profitable business?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Brittany Chinaglia, founder of The Vintage Rug Shop, about transforming a passion project into a thriving business. Brittany shares lessons learned from building an online brand, managing growth, and creating systems that support long-term success.

For interior designers considering an additional revenue stream—or dreaming of turning a side project into a full-time venture—this episode offers practical advice on business fundamentals, financial management, and online sales.

In this episode, we learn:
• Why strong financial systems are essential for business growth
• How hiring a bookkeeper can save time and improve profitability
• Why an efficient, user-friendly website is critical for online sales success
• How niche products and expertise can create new revenue opportunities
• What it takes to build visibility and credibility within the design industry
• How a side hustle can evolve into a profitable and sustainable business

 

Take Aways

Brittany’s experience at High Point – read the article

Glitter Guide’s feature on Brittany’s home – take the tour

Sites that facilitate online sales:

DESIGN INTERVENTION

Brittany’s advice: Don’t listen when people tell you to take a sensible job out of college. Follow your passion and earn a living doing what you love.

 

Brittany is a California based designer, curator, and blogger with an expertise in vintage rugs and textiles. Brittany’s creative career was launched over a decade ago in jewelry design, which she sold through different retailers throughout California. While climbing the ranks in the corporate world, Brittany decided to return to her creative roots by launching her blog in 2010; a creative outlet and an editorial destination for all things design. Since then, the site has evolved to include a carefully curated vintage rug and textile shop and blooming boutique interior design studio.

www.thevintagerugshop.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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