# 71 | How to Run a Successful Family-Owned Interior Desing Business

1-LaunchingInterior design BusinessBrandingGetting Started

Feb 22

" I believe with my whole heart that every experience we have in life contributes to our work as interior designers and business owners."

In this episode, we jump into a conversation all about the Unconventional path to interior design success with mother-daughter duo Susan and Jillian Hayward of Susan Hayward Interiors. We discuss all of the shared experiences, challenges, and collaboration along the way.

Here are the highlights from the episode.

The struggle of entrepreneurship, design education, and business growth

Many times interior designers have taken an unconventional path to get into design much like Susan who went from a corporate job to a full-time photography business and eventually into interior design
Entrepreneurship comes with many ups and downs and added responsibility but the flexibility can help build a family-first approach.
Jillian shares about her background in marine science and how her experience in the military influenced her approach to design including how she now incorporates sustainable practices into her work.

Setting Boundaries in Interior Design

When just starting out, most interior designers have concerns about finding clients and standing out in a crowded industry

Finding balance through hiring and growing your interior design business requires setting boundaries and finding what works for your situation.
Setting healthy boundaries with clients can be a challenge including when you check messages, how and when you respond, and setting (and sticking to) your set work hours

Sustainable Practices in Interior Design

Waste reduction and environmentally responsible practices are important when designing a space

Investing in high-quality, timeless pieces that won't need to be replaced often, rather than buying cheap, disposable items goes a long way in sustainable design
Find more on sustainable practices in interior design in our last episode here and download our FREE Sustainability Guide for Interior Designers below!

This episode wraps up with a discussion on collaboration in interior design and truly helping to personalize a space for our clients through each project.