Episode Details

This replay episode brings back a great conversation with Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors about what it really looks like to grow an interior design business with intention. Ali shares how she built her firm by leaning into process, trusting her instincts, and making thoughtful investments in support before the results were fully visible.

Rebecca and Shaun talk with Ali about balancing strategy with gut instinct, using Instagram as both a marketing and educational tool, and why community matters so much when you are scaling a design business. From hiring help for social media to building referral relationships with other designers, architects, and builders, this episode is packed with practical insight for designers navigating change and growth.

In this episode they discuss:

• Why trusting your instincts can be just as important as relying on the numbers when making growth decisions
• How Ali positioned AEF Interiors around process instead of aesthetic alone
• What happened when she invested in social media support and why Instagram became a major lead source
• Why organic content can attract both ideal clients and fellow interior designers
• How networking with architects, builders, realtors, and other designers can create long-term opportunities
• The importance of hiring people who are better than you in their specific roles
• Why tracking your time is essential for pricing, hiring, and understanding what it costs to run your business
• How community and designer-to-designer relationships can support both your business growth and emotional health

Mentioned:

• AEF Interiors website
• Follow Ali on Instagram
• Haven Workshop
• Her workshop with Tandem
• Diving Into the Interior Design Process

Our links:

• Subscribe and leave a review - Apple Podcasts
• Like, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club Instagram
• Rebecca’s Instagram
• Shaun’s Instagram
• For more information - Check out the website
• Become a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon
• Design Resources -

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