100: You Are Only as Good as Your Sources

Design Business Freedom

In interior design, your creativity is only as powerful as the resources you have at your fingertips. It’s not just about having a great eye for color or space. It’s about knowing where to find the perfect pieces that bring your vision to life. Without the right sources, even the most talented designers can struggle to create something truly special.

This episode is all about sourcing. We’re talking about the importance of building a solid list of go-to vendors, why attending High Point Market is a game-changer, the value of relationships with reps and workrooms, the magic of adding “pop” pieces to your designs, and how you can keep growing through networking and exploration. These are the keys to not just surviving in the design world, but thriving and standing out from the crowd.

IMPORTANCE OF BUILDING A ROBUST SOURCING LIST

Let’s start with the basics - your sourcing list. Think of it as your toolkit. Without it, you’re not going to get very far. Melissa Galt emphasizes that having a strong, well-rounded list of vendors and manufacturers is essential. This list should cover all the categories you need, from flooring to artwork, so that you’re always ready to pull out the perfect piece for any project. But here’s the thing…your list should never be static! As you grow your business, your list should grow with you. Keep adding new sources so you’re not just recycling the same options. This keeps your designs fresh, innovative, and aligned with what your clients want.

ATTENDING HIGH POINT MARKET FOR EXCEPTIONAL SOURCING

If you’re serious about sourcing, High Point Market needs to be on your calendar. This is the ultimate destination for home furnishings, and if you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out. I am a huge advocate for making the trip at least once a year. There are over 2,000 manufacturers under one roof! But it’s not just about the quantity of options. High Point is where you find those hidden gems that can take your designs to the next level. Whether you’re new to the market or a regular, there’s always something new to discover. Plus, if you join our VIP Design Tour, you will get an insider’s look at the vendors that really make a difference. We will skip the big names and go straight to the unique, must-have resources.

THE ROLE OF REPS AND WORKROOMS IN ENHANCING DESIGN PROJECTS

Now, let’s talk about relationships. In design, who you know can be just as important as what you know. This is especially true when it comes to your reps and workrooms. These industry insiders can be your secret weapon, offering you access to exclusive products and saving you time and money. I share how relationships I’ve built wth reps have been game-changing, especially in high-stakes projects like showhouses. Good reps know their stuff, and they can introduce you to options you didn’t even know existed. And let’s not forget about workrooms and installers - they know what works and what doesn’t, and their expertise can ensure your projects go off without a hitch.

ADDING “POP” ELEMENTS TO CREATE MEMORABLE DESIGNS

Every design needs that special something - that “wow” factor. I call these “pop” elements, and they’re what make a project truly memorable. Whether it’s a striking piece of art, an incredible rug, or a custom piece of furniture, these pops are what set your designs apart from the rest. The key to finding these show-stopping pieces? A diverse sourcing list that includes vendors who specialize in unique, one-of-a-kind items. These are the pieces that clients remember and that make your work stand out.

CONTINUOUS GROWTH THROUGH NETWORKING AND EXPLORATION

Sourcing isn’t a one-time thing…it’s an ongoing journey. The design world is always changing, and to stay ahead, you need to keep exploring new vendors, building new relationships, and expanding your network. Whether you’re attending High Point Market, joining online design communities, or just chatting with colleagues, the more you connect, the more you grow. I encourage you to frequently ask yourself this question, “Who have I added to my list this month?” This approach keeps your designs fresh, original, and always on the cutting edge.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (02:05) - Why you need to attend High Point at least once a year

• (05:50) - The 10 categories of sources you need in your foundational list

• (07:15) - The reason artwork is not in the accessories/accents category

• (10:30) - Why you should never underestimate the power of your reps

• (15:45) - Installers and workrooms - they have tons of knowledge and sources

• (18:35) - Seeking out advice from colleagues and Facebook groups

• (22:00) - Join our VIP tour - it’s different from the rest

• (24:45) - The difference between “shopping” and “sourcing”

• (33:05) - Why every project needs a “wow” factor

• (37:50) - Why I invest in original art

• (41:45) - Training someone on your team to do your installs

Mentioned: VIP DESIGNER TOUR at High Point

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