Hi there, home decor lovers! Are you ready to take your living area to the next level? Well, buckle up because I’m about to reveal how to find an interior decorator who will make your design dreams come true!
Why Hire an Interior Decorator?
First, talk about why you should even bother hiring an interior decorator. Can’t you watch a few YouTube tutorials and call it a day? An interior decorator is much more than a fancy title.
Here are a few reasons why an interior decorator is a total game-changer:
1. They have a trained eye for design. Interior decorators are like the superheroes of the design world. They have a sixth sense of what looks good and doesn’t and can revamp even the most boring room into a total showstopper.
2. They save you time and money. Trying to decorate your home alone can be a total time-suck (and money-suck, for that matter). An interior decorator knows where to find the best deals on furniture and decor, and they can help you avoid costly mistakes.
3. They make your life easier. Decorating your home can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure what you’re doing. An interior decorator takes all the guesswork from the process, making it a total breeze.
I remember when I first hired an interior decorator for my own home. I was initially skeptical, but let me tell you—it was my best decision ever. My living room went from “blah” to “wow” in no time, and I didn’t have to lift a finger (except to write the check, of course).
How to Find an Interior Decorator
Okay, so you’re sold on hiring an interior decorator. But how do you find one? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered.
Ask for Referrals
One of the best ways to find an interior decorator is to ask for referrals from friends and family. Chances are, someone you know has worked with a decorator before and can scoop on who’s good (and who’s not-so-good).
Check Out Online Directories
If you don’t have any personal referrals, don’t fret! There are plenty of online directories where you can find qualified interior decorators. Some of my favorites include Houzz, Decorilla, and Havenly.
Browse Social Media
Social media is a gold mine for finding interior decorators. Check out hashtags like #interiordesign or #homedecor on Instagram and see whose work catches your eye. Most decorators will have their contact info in their bio, so you can easily reach out and start a conversation.
What to Look for in an Interior Decorator
So you’ve got a few potential decorators in mind. But how do you know which one is the right fit for you? Here are a few things to look for:
Style
First and foremost, you want to ensure that the decorator’s style aligns with your own. Look at their portfolio and see if their previous work gives you all the feels. It might not be a match made in heaven if you’re into modern, minimalist design, and they’re all about the shabby chic look.
Communication | How to Find an Interior Decorator
Decorating your home is a VERY personal process, so you want to ensure that you vibe with your decorator individually. Do they listen to your ideas and concerns? Do they communicate clearly and promptly? These are all critical factors to consider.
Budget
Interior decorators aren’t cheap. But that doesn’t mean you must break the bank to get the home of your dreams. Look for a decorator willing to work within your budget and can give you realistic expectations of what you can achieve with your money.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Interior Decorator
Before you sign on the dotted line, there are a few key questions you should ask your potential decorator:
1. What is your design process like?
2. How do you charge for your services?
3. What is the timeline for the project?
4. How do you handle communication and updates throughout the project?
5. Can you provide references from past clients?
Asking these questions upfront can help you avoid any surprises down the road and ensure that you and your decorator are on the same page.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
While most interior decorators are pros, there are a few red flags to watch out for. If you notice any of these things, it might be time to look for a different decorator:
1. They don’t listen to your ideas or concerns.
2. They’re constantly pushing you to spend more money than you’re comfortable with.
3. They’re unresponsive or difficult to get in touch with.
4. They don’t have a clear contract or payment structure.
5. They have a history of negative reviews or unhappy clients.
TRUST your gut – if something feels off, it probably is.
The Benefits of Working with an Interior Decorator
Okay, we’ve covered the how and the who of finding an interior decorator. But what about the why? What are the actual benefits of working with a pro? Let me break it down for you:
You’ll Save Time
Decorating your home can be a full-time job (trust me, I’ve been there). By hiring an interior decorator, you can sit back and relax while they do all the heavy lifting. No more spending your weekends scouring thrift stores for the perfect vintage rug—your decorators have it covered.
You’ll Get a Cohesive Look
One of the biggest challenges of decorating your home is creating a cohesive look that flows from room to room. An interior decorator has the skills and expertise to create a unified aesthetic that feels intentional and polished.
You’ll Love Your Home
The most significant benefit of working with an interior decorator is that you’ll LOVE your home. You’ll wake up every morning feeling excited to start your day in an area that reflects your style and personality.
How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with an Interior Decorator
So, you’ve found the perfect decorator and are ready to start. But wait – there’s a little homework you must do first! Here’s how to prepare for your first meeting:
Make a List of Your Must-Haves
Before you meet with your decorator, make a list of your non-negotiables. Do you need a king-sized bed in your bedroom? Is a home office a top priority? Make sure your decorator knows what’s important to you from the get-go.
Gather Inspiration
Remember all those hours you spent scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram? It’s time to put them to good use! Gather a collection of images that inspire you and share them with your decorator to give them a good sense of your style and help them create a design plan you’ll love.
Set a Budget
I know, I know – talking about money can be awkward. But being upfront about your budget from the beginning is SO important. Give your decorator a realistic idea of what you’re willing to spend, and they can help you prioritize your wishlist and make the most of your money.
What to Expect During the Design Process
Okay, you’ve had your first meeting with your decorator, and it is officially underway. But what happens next? Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect during the design process:
Concept Development
Your decorator will use all the information you’ve given them (your must-haves, inspiration images, budget, etc.) to create a design concept for your area, including a mood board, floor plans, and furniture and decor recommendations.
Revisions and Approvals
Once you’ve seen the initial design concept, you’ll have a chance to give feedback and make revisions. This is your opportunity to speak up if something doesn’t feel right or you want to incorporate a new idea.
Ordering and Installation
Once you’ve approved the final design plan, your decorator will start ordering all the necessary furniture, decor, and materials. They’ll coordinate delivery and installation, so all you have to do is sit back and watch your area come to life!
The Big Reveal
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for—the big reveal! Your decorator will put the finishing touches on your area and invite you for the grand unveiling. Prepare to be WOWED by the makeover.
Maintaining Your Newly Decorated Home
Congratulations – you’ve survived the design process and are now the proud owner of a gorgeous, professionally decorated home! But the work doesn’t stop there. Here are a few tips for maintaining your newly decorated area:
Stick to a Cleaning Schedule
The key to keeping your home looking its best is regular maintenance. Create a cleaning schedule and stick to it – even if that means hiring a professional cleaning service to help out.
Protect Your Investment
You’ve invested much time and money into your newly decorated home, so protecting that investment is essential. Use coasters on your wood furniture, avoid placing hot dishes directly on your countertops, and keep your upholstery clean and stain-free.
Final Thoughts | How to Find an Interior Decorator
I hope you’re feeling excited and empowered to start your search for the perfect interior decorator. Finding the right fit might take a little time and effort, but it’s worth it.
Your home should reflect your style and be where you feel happy, comfortable, and inspired. An interior decorator can help you achieve that vision and create an area you’ll love for years.
So what are you waiting for? Start browsing those Instagram hashtags, asking for referrals, and gathering inspiration. Your dream home is just a decorator away!
Oh, and one more thing—if you end up working with an interior decorator, I want to hear all about it! I live for a good home makeover story.
Happy decorating, my friends!