Design Democracy

I spent the entire weekend as an exhibitor at the Greater Lansing Home Builders Association spring home show. As the only residential interior designer at the show, I encounted many folks who walked by the booth, stared at me, looked at the sign, stared at me some more, then poured their little hearts out with tales of decorating woe.

My conversations with these folks generally involved first listening to their needs, then recommending a level of service that would be a good fit for their project. What many clients appreciate about the service I offer is the degree of specialization based on their needs; specifically, I honor the do-it-yourselfers as much as the total concierge level clients by working with them to help them live better in their homes.

The best part of the homeshow for me is watching the expresssion on the faces of the showgoers when I explain that the interior design seminars I offer are free of charge. With the help of Redhead Design Studio, I created a new brochure featuring the eight seminars I regularly offer through the Capital District Libraries. Titles such as “Color Coward“, “Tapped Out Design” and the catchy “Decorating Your House without Killing Your Spouse” caught the attention of these visitors and left them wanting more information. “But how can you give away your secrets?”, they’d inquire. “Easy”, I’d reply. “My business philosophy is simple: Design is a democracy, not a dictatorship. I take no joy in withholding knowledge; you don’t benefit from my secrecy. If I empower you with knowledge, you’ll be confident and prepared to move forward with your project. You’ll live better in your home”.

Thanks to all the folks who stopped by to chat with me at the home show, and I look forward to seeing everyone at the seminars at the next show at the MSU Pavilion!