For those of you who were not able to attend RESACON in Vegas this year I have some great news!
I am doing a recap here on Audra Slinkey’s session Make Money with
E Design.
As lines become blurred between stagers and designers this is a viable way to add another stream of income while at home in your jammies.
Here are some of the benefits to adding e design to your business model:
- no overhead
- no liability
- you can have clients from all over
- time flexibility
- you get to tap into your creativity
- you can create different packages at different price points
- this is a great add on to a consultation based business model
- It is also important to note the benefits to the client because, let’s face it -It is ALL about them!
- they get compelling visuals
- they get a cohesive plan
- you keep clients from making costly mistakes
- it allows the client to design in phases
- it fits into most budgets
- minimizes sourcing overwhelm for the client
- saves the client time
- clients can shop for themselves
Audra discussed her research on different software programs that serve different needs for the designer/stager. She prefers the ones that look like curated boards as opposed to room builder software like Chief Architect, because she finds them more aesthetically appealing.
After comparing the pros and cons of these platforms Audra found Design Files to be her favorite, although she was quick to say that this is all personal choice and you should do your own homework to decide which one works best for you and your business model
I know that alot of my Designer colleagues like MyDoma and another option for a “curated look” is Wecova.
Audra chose Design Files because she felt that it was easy to use and the technology is robust.
This interior design tool helps you streamline your workflow. It has a budget calculator, a product library, access to all paint colors, a place for clients to comment and is easy to use. It is also reasonably priced at $35 a month (compared to MY DOMA which is $59 a month).
You can create a mood board, add text, add products, calculate expenses, and the client can comment- all in a central hub where all questions are submitted and answered. This alleviates unlimited text, email, phone calls, etc.
And the really cool thing is that every page, email and presentation that you send to your client is branded by you so that it looks very professional.
There is also a browser clipper that allows you to add products as well as tear sheets for products.
When you use Design Files everything is automated so that you don’t have to keep reinventing the wheel. You begin with a questionnaire for clients to fill out and detailed instructions for them to take pictures of the room(s) that they would like help with.
And you can customize it to suit your business. They even have promo material that you can use.
So if you love design (and working in your jammies) this stream of income might be just the solution you are looking for!
Cheers to YOU and YOUR success,
