EP 414 | Run Your Business: The Systems Interior Designers Need to Succeed (Live from IDS Toronto)

February 4, 2025

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Interior design is a complex, demanding profession—and if you’ve ever felt behind despite working hard, you’re not imagining it. In this live episode from IDS Toronto, Kimberley Seldon speaks directly to the reality many designers face: exceptional creative training paired with little to no preparation for running a business.

Some designers leave school without learning the fundamentals of profitability, contracts, or delegation. Others work for years—sometimes decades—without the systems, procedures, and strategies required to build a sustainable firm. This episode addresses that gap head-on.

Kimberley breaks down what it actually takes to run a successful interior design business, from getting paid properly to attracting ideal clients and building a team you can trust. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start leading your business with intention, this episode lays the foundation.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • How to enjoy the real perks of business ownership, including profitability
  • How to satisfy clients and generate repeat and referral business
  • How to attract ideal clients and grow projects that support long-term wealth
  • Why clear policies and procedures protect your time and income
  • How to create a standardized contract that works across projects
  • How to hire the right people and delegate effectively
  • How to confidently manage clients, trades, and your team
  • How to step fully into the role of expert and business owner

 

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The Business of Design® Signature Business Program is our flagship, proven system for interior designers who want structure, profitability, and confidence—without burnout. Built on 30+ years of real-world experience, it gives you the exact framework to run a successful design firm.

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Enroll now and build the business your talent deserves >>

About Marla Baker

Marla Baker provides sales, consulting and business development services for the Design Industry. 

Marla is a recognized Design Community Advocate and known as a matchmaker in the industry connecting Architects and Designers with the brands, services, events and seminars that are meaningful to them. She produces results for the companies she represents while supporting and understanding the needs of the Design Community.

www.marlabaker.ca

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used for any legal decisions. Kimberley Seldon Design Group, Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc., Kimberley Seldon Design and Media, Inc., Business of Design™, or any of its affiliated companies or staff is not responsible for any errors or omissions effecting accuracy in any content, and they will not be held liable for the use or misuse of information, facts, details or any other aspects should there arise any defects, errors, omissions or perhaps inaccuracies. Extensive research has been conducted to put this podcast together for the purpose of educating our industry in order to better serve the public. Care has been taken to acknowledge ownership of copyrighted material. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for every situation. This work is offered with the understanding that we do not render any legal, accounting or other professional advice. Seek the advice of a lawyer and/or other competent professional person in all matters of law. Further, listeners should be aware that internet websites mentioned may change or disappear between when this was recorded and when it was listened to.

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