Marketing in the interior design industry has undergone a massive transformation, and in this powerful episode, Melissa dives into exactly what’s working in 2025 and how you can implement these strategies to attract high-quality, ready-to-invest clients. From shifting buyer behaviors and updated marketing platforms to creating a consistent and personal digital presence, you’ll learn the current must-dos and must-avoids to market your design business with confidence.

Melissa walks you through the core marketing channels making the biggest impact today—SEO, Pinterest, email, and strategic partnerships—and shares actionable insights on how to optimize your marketing with minimal overwhelm. Whether you're a seasoned designer or scaling your studio, this episode delivers a clear, strategic roadmap to help you get found by your dream clients, nurture them through your pipeline, and build a sustainable business you love.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (01:25) Why today's design clients care more about your process and values than just your portfolio
• (03:00) The importance of Google My Business and how to use it without breaking the bank
• (05:21) Why Pinterest has long-term marketing value—and how Melissa is doubling her traffic with minimal time
• (16:24) Using Instagram strategically through stories and DMs to show your vibe and attract ideal clients
• (19:00) A simple monthly email newsletter strategy that keeps leads warm without taking days to create
• (25:48) How one designer transformed her entire business through a builder partnership—and what you can learn from it

SUPPORTING RESOURCES:

• Shawn Joshi for Google My Business Optimization: shawnjoshi.com

When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

Building an unforgettable client journey is one of the most powerful ways to boost your design firm's reputation and success. In this episode, you’ll learn how to create an experience that feels as luxurious and thoughtful as the spaces you design. Melissa walks you through the entire client journey, from the first website click to the final reveal, and shares how to transform your leads into loyal, raving fans.

You’ll discover how to attract your ideal clients, onboard them with intention, and keep them delighted every step of the way. Plus, Melissa offers real-world tips for clear communication, milestone celebrations, and gathering feedback that can skyrocket your brand’s buzz. If you’re ready to turn every project into a lasting relationship (and a referral engine), this episode is packed with the strategies you need!

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (00:55) Why your client journey is your brand in action — not just your workflow
• (04:08) How to ensure your website attracts (and qualifies) your ideal clients
• (09:45) Why setting expectations early prevents client frustrations later
• (19:02) The magic of a tangible welcome packet and why digital alone isn’t enough
• (23:45) How regular client updates slash random calls and build massive trust
• (28:03) Creating WOW moments along the project timeline to counteract "whoa" moments

SUPPORTING RESOURCES:

• Join the Design Business Freedom Facebook Group

When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

In this must-listen episode of Design Business Freedom, you’ll dive deep into one of the trickiest topics in your design business—pricing. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in the industry for years and still feel uneasy when talking numbers, this episode will help you shift your mindset, clean up your pricing structure, and finally charge what you’re worth with confidence. Melissa shares real-world examples, outlines the costly mistakes many designers make, and shows you how to approach pricing conversations with the ease of passing the salt at dinner.

You’ll also discover why using flat fees can change your business, how to package your services for greater profit, and when (and how) you should raise your rates. Plus, you’ll learn why specializing can fast-track your success and how letting go of the wrong clients opens the door to building a business that truly lights you up.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (01:23) Why pricing by the square foot can set you up for failure—and how you can avoid it
• (06:00) How to treat money conversations like “pass the salt” moments so you stay confident and unattached
• (14:34) The three pricing models you need to know (and why hourly is the one you should ditch)
• (21:20) Why knowing your profit margins empowers you and helps you grow faster
• (27:49) How specializing in a niche can help you attract more of your dream clients
• (41:49) Why you need to raise your rates every single year—and how to do it without fear

SUPPORTING RESOURCES:

• Join the Design Business Freedom Facebook Group: Design Business Freedom Facebook Group
• Book a Call: book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster

When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.