10 Must-Knows For Aspiring Interior Designers

"Your job is SO glamorous!" True, it can be. But it's also a lot of hard work. For every stunning reveal and beautifully styled shelf, there are hours spent with a tape measure in hand instead of a glass of champagne. Behind each "after" photo is a long list of measurements, budget conversations, late nights and trades you've learned to trust. After years in this industry, I've picked up a few truths about what it actually takes to build a career and a brand in design. Whether you're just starting out or thinking about making this your business, here are the lessons I wish someone had handed me at the beginning.

10 Things Every Interior Designer Must Know

1. Interior Design looks like a glamorous job, and it can be, but you spend more time with a tape measure in your hand than a glass of champagne.

2. You want to have a love for construction and need building knowledge. Listen to your trades; they are essential for your success.

3. Don’t compete with other designers, uplift them. Be a community.

4. Understand that design is very personal for clients. You are in their private sanctuary spending their money. Treat it with respect and honor while you design. Really listen to your clients.

5. Networking is part of the job. You not only make great connections in the trades, but also potential clients. It’s key to understand your design community and how you can be part of it.

6. Give back! The best way to get is to give. Find ways to be involved on a board, do something that helps grow your community in an even larger way.

7. Be prepared for long hours, evenings and weekends if you are an owner. Work and deadlines need to always be met, and it’s your brand on the line.

8. Protect your brand! Make sure that you are consistent with your brand

9. Education. You must always be open to learning more, taking classes, CEU’s and knowing what is hot, what is not, and when to ignore trends that aren’t tasteful.

10. Your side hustle is a therapist. You must understand clients quickly! Knowing what they need and how they want to feel in a space is key. Every home, every homeowner has different families, experiences and goals. Our job is to figure that out and make sure the dream vision comes through.