Design Business Freedom

Latest Episodes:

062: Who Your Brand Needs To Be For Affluent Clients, Part 2 Nov 27, 2023

Show notes

Do you know what it takes to attract and satisfy the crème de la crème of clients? In today's episode of The Affluent Creative, we are picking up where we left off on the art of crafting a robust brand that appeals to the affluent clientele. While previously we focused on tips to incorporate to build your physical brand presence, today, we are diving into communication strategies from social media to socializing. I'm talking about establishing a commanding online presence and remaining consistent with your brand image on different social media platforms, all while building more knowledge of the luxurious pastimes of your most ideal clients.

Infusing luxury into your brand's social media presence can significantly up the ante and make sure your clients keep coming back. The affluent are in search of experiences, not just purchases, and the right approach to social media can help you tap into this desire. From understanding the intricacies of luxury to gaining knowledge about exquisite wine, spirits, and travel locations, I will share with you insights from my own years of experience that you can use to make a lasting impact.

Discover the essence of maintaining a polished and professional image in your social media presence, email etiquette, and even payment process through the channels that your ideal client looks for the most. We've got a session brimming with insights, strategies, and resources to position your brand for luxury.

In this episode, you will hear:

The significance of branding in every aspect of your business from travel gear to email signatures
Ways to enhance brand image for affluent clients
Tips on creating experiences rather than mere purchases
The significance of having knowledge about luxury spirits, wine and other beverages in boosting brand appeal and confidence

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Supporting Resources:

GET THE BOOK "Marketing Luxury Design: Attracting Affluent Clients", the source for Who Your Brand Needs to Be to Attract Affluent Clients
Additional Episode Resources Here
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

061: Who Your Brand Needs To Be For Affluent Clients, Part 1 Nov 20, 2023

Show notes

Ever wondered how your fashion choices could determine your success? Today, we're exploring the power of aligning values with your ideal clients rather than hard-selling and how your style choices – from your wardrobe to your eyewear – can impact your brand's image. We're looking at the undeniable allure of fascination–which is why making an outrageous eyewear statement, for example, could actually be a game-changer for your business, taking cues from icons like Elton John and Iris Apfel.

Who knew that your choice of car, jewelry, and even technology could narrate your brand's story? Whether it be your snazzy watch, architectural jewelry, or the sleek car you drive, these factors all contribute to your brand's narrative. Learn how to harness these elements and reflect your brand's ethos powerfully. Drawing inspiration from the successful designer Peter Marino, we'll learn how to think, dress, and act out of the box. We'll also delve into the often overlooked aspects of our lives – our phone cases, ringtones, and screensavers – and how they silently communicate our brand to the world.

It's not just about what you wear; it's about crafting a brand wardrobe that speaks volumes. Tune in as I share my journey of breaking away from a signature look to create a new wardrobe that better aligns with my brand identity. We'll take a closer look at the concept of a 'brand wardrobe' and understand how a support network plays a pivotal role in building your business. Wrapping up, we'll explore the benefits of subscribing and sharing the podcast and how you can interact with me directly. Let's take this captivating journey together and step closer to becoming an affluent creative!

In this episode, you will hear:

The importance of creating a remarkable and recognizable brand image through fashion and personal style
The impact that personal choices like eyewear, jewelry, cars, and technology can have on your brand image
Tips on crafting a 'brand wardrobe' that aligns with your brand identity
How to use tech and business cards to effectively represent your brand

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

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060: When You Let Love Lead, Business Grows: Meet Jenna Wedemeyer of Schnabel Interiors in Lexington KY Nov 13, 2023

Show notes

Get ready to be captivated by Jenna Wedemeyer of Schnabel Interiors as she dishes on her journey from nearly burning out to finding the perfect work-life balance and uplifting her business. Jenna's narrative of finding joy in horse riding, reconnecting with a long-lost sweetheart, and successfully moving her life and business proves that personal happiness can coexist with professional accomplishment.

Jenna and I plunge into deep discussions about the significant aspects of business investment and how she leveraged her education to fuel her design business. Our conversation takes you through the art of forming client relationships and setting boundaries, to managing a website that reflects your brand. Jenna's penchant for minimalism and decluttering, and her expertise in the design market's dynamics provide a fresh perspective in the field.

Jenna and I also delve into the essence of networking and partnerships in scaling a business. Our conversation sheds light on the changing resources for designers and the increasing importance of forging meaningful connections with other professionals. Jenna's experience with the value of having a mentor to guide your entrepreneurial journey will inspire you to take risks and find others to help you explore your potential. So, sit back and let Jenna's story motivate you to create your dream creative business.

In this episode, you will hear:

Jenna Wedemeyer's transition from burnout to achieving work-life balance and business success
How personal happiness and professional accomplishment can coexist
What the changing landscape of resources means for designers
The importance of forging meaningful connections with other professionals

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

Check out Jenna's work on Schnabel Interiors Website and Schnabel Interiors Instagram
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

059: What to Release for More Revenue Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

Struggling to shed those last 10 pounds taught me a lot more than just the importance of discipline and perseverance - it also taught me about growth. Personal growth, yes, but also business growth. What started as a quest to shed weight evolved into a passionate exploration of the powerful connection between personal and business transformation.

In this journey of personal and professional evolution, I discovered the power of restructuring your business framework. I'm not talking about a simple cosmetic change, I'm talking about a fundamental shift in the way you operate. Breaking free from limiting beliefs, inefficient systems, inadequate clients, and low rates - it's more than just boundary-setting, it's about reclaiming your power, it's about revamping your business and paving its way to growth. And believe it or not, I found the humble pen and paper to be my greatest ally in this venture. There's something about putting your thoughts on paper that makes them seem more tangible and more real.

In today's episode, we are tapping into the power of releasing to invite more freedom, peace, and profit into your business. It's about letting go of the past, being fully present, and looking forward to the possibilities of the future. I'll walk you through the 10 things you need to release, starting with the fallacy that more revenue requires more work. It's time to release what no longer serves you, reclaim what needs to be reclaimed, and set your sights on a prosperous future. Join me in this exciting journey of personal growth, business transformation, and strategic decisions.

In this episode, you will hear:

10 things to let go of in your business, including the myth that increased revenue always equals more work
How powerful the concept of "release" can be for your happiness and success in business
The value of a well-matched team and my tips on managing underperformers
The importance of restructuring your business, challenging limiting beliefs, and overhauling ineffective systems when they just aren't working for you

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach
"What to Release for MORE Revenue"

Episode Credits

058: Your 4 Ingredients for Higher Profits Oct 30, 2023

Show notes

Ever struggled to balance your creative instincts with the cold hard facts of business profitability? At the recent High Point Market, I had the chance to sit down with three successful designers - Isabel Ladd, Duvall Reynolds, and Justine Knox - to unlock the mystery of building a profitable creative practice. Now, I want to share some of those insights with you all. The best part is that these four ingredients are all things that you already have going for you!

What are these four essential ingredients to success? Personality, point of view, process, and portfolio. You might be surprised, but price isn't on my list–and it isn't as significant as you may think.

In our conversation, I'll explore how Isabel, Duvall, and Justine each harnessed their unique perspectives to attract their ideal clients. We'll also delve into the art of simplifying choices for clients to reinforce your expertise and relieve decision fatigue. By the end of today's episode, you will have collected a treasure trove of insights to help you amplify, optimize, and maximize the four essential ingredients of success in your website, social media, and stories. Tune in to discover the secrets to a less stressful, more profitable creative practice!

In this episode, you will hear:

Strategies to improve productivity, confidence, and profit with ingredients you already bring to the table
Inspiring ways that these successful designers have utilized the four keys to creative success in their businesses
Why your price should not be the ultimate reason clients hire you
The importance of portfolio and process in attracting clients and increasing profit

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Supporting Resources:

Justine Knox's website
Isabel Ladd's website
Duval Reynolds' website
Podcast Episode: Your Client's Aren't Qualified
The Go Beyond Intensive
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

057: Unlocking the Principles of Profit: Harnessing Social Media for Your Creative Business Oct 23, 2023

Show notes

Social media is an amazing tool that, when used correctly, can serve and support your business' success. It is not something that you need to dedicate gobs of time to either, as long as you can use it strategically. Selecting only certain feeds to follow, setting specific goals for engagement and activity, and not overwhelming yourself by managing too many accounts are just some of the strategies I'll be diving deeper into throughout today's episode.

Today, I'm sharing with you 12 specific principles to follow when using social media to increase your profit. With each principle, I will also leave you with a couple of action steps you can start trying immediately to help you move forward. We are all about taking action here, and these steps are smart, targeted strategies that you can implement on your creative journey to success.

In this episode, you will hear:

Why using social media strategically is so important for your business
What the 12 Social Media Principals of Profit are and how to implement them
Specific action steps for each principle for a clear and actionable way forward

Subscribe and Review

Have you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love to welcome you to our creative community if you haven't yet subscribed.

We'd truly appreciate it if you drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

056: 7 Unexpected Ways to Amplify Your Client Base in the Creative Industry Oct 16, 2023

Show notes

We all hit a rut at some point in our design careers. Perhaps you've gotten to a place where business seems to have slowed down and you want to hit the refresh button to jumpstart yourself into a new market of clients. Or, maybe you are a budding new designer, trying to build up your portfolio and make it into your ideal client market.

Whether you are new to the game or simply looking for a new perspective, you need to step outside of your comfort zone and use the tools you have at your disposal to expand your business. That also means looking for clients in places that you may have yet to consider.

In today's episode, we're diving into 7 unexpected ways to find clients when you are just starting out or stuck in your business. Think of it as both inspiration and strategic guidance to help you get from starting out into a place of momentum and accomplishment.

In this episode, you will hear:

Seven out-of-the-box solutions to tracking down new markets for potential clients
Why being your own client can be especially rewarding
The importance of leveraging social media in your business
Why doing whatever it takes will get you farther than just stopping at your best

Subscribe and Review

Have you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love to welcome you to our creative community, if you haven't yet subscribed.

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

055: From Zero to $1.5M in 18 Months with Lisa Scott Oct 09, 2023

Show notes

I'm thrilled to have Lisa Scott, the creative genius behind the highly successful Scott Design Studio in Florida, as our guest for this episode. Lisa's story is an inspiring one. In a short span of just 18 months, she's managed to skyrocket from having no clients to making a whopping one and a half million in revenue!

Today, we're excited to dive deep into her journey and the secret strategies behind her rapid success. Lisa's journey is inspirational, not only because of her rapid rise but also because of her unique approach to business. She believes in the power of visualization and the importance of taking a bold leap of faith. These strategies helped her land the biggest contract of her life, propelling her towards rapid success.

During our chat, Lisa shares the challenges she faced while expanding her business and managing her team. From procurement to impressing clients with stunning renderings, Lisa spills the beans on how she navigated these obstacles. She also provides valuable advice on how to handle last-minute design changes and collaborate with design rookies. Lisa also highlights the importance of self-awareness and strategic planning for personal growth and business success. We delve into her transformative journey towards becoming an entrepreneur and the mindset shift that came with it.

From future aspirations to plans for generating additional revenue streams, Lisa's story is packed with practical advice and inspiration. So whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding one, tune in to this episode and learn from Lisa's experiences. It's a conversation filled with nuggets of wisdom that will help you navigate your journey to success.

In this episode, you will hear:

Lisa Scott's journey from having no clients to making one and a half million in revenue in 18 months
Strategies and hurdles she faced while managing a design team and expanding a business
The significance of self-awareness and strategic planning in promoting personal growth and achieving business targets
How to build a successful creative business and manage a design team's challenges in procurement

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

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054: Hybrid Career Designer Deanne Bridenstine on Hiding Your Stuff Oct 02, 2023

Show notes

On todays episode of The Affluent Creative, I have the pleasure of featuring my guest client and dear friend, Deanne Bridenstine to discuss her journey from architecture to entrepreneurship. Deanne is the principal designer and CEO of Pure Design Interiors, as well as the director of merchandising and design for Tailored Closets and Premier Garages. I've been so fortunate to watch her growth as a designer and am delighted to give her the opportunity to share her insights and journey with you.

Throughout our conversation, we dive into her strategic approach towards sustainable growth and how transforming Pure Design into a boutique firm has been instrumental in reaching her revenue goals. Deanne also talks about the significant impact her partnership with Tailored Living has had on her business. We uncover Deanne's trials and triumphs in transitioning from the corporate world to owning a small business in the home building industry.

She details how she overcame networking fears and learned to capitalize on current trends in closet and garage organization systems in a way that was pivotal for her partnership with Tailored Closets and Premier Garages. Deanne also shares her remote work experiences in Venice and West Africa, and the benefits of breaking away from routine for motivation. Deanne is a wealth of practical knowledge and you are not going to want to miss our conversation. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey where creativity, design, and business intersect!

In this episode, you will hear:

Deanne Bridenstine's transition from architecture to entrepreneurship
How she transformed Pure Design into a boutique firm
Her strategies for sustainable growth within design firms
Deanne's experiences in overcoming networking fears when transitioning from corporate to small business ownership

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

For more information about Deanne, check out her company websites: https://tailoredcloset.com/ and https://www.premiergarage.com/
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

Episode Credits

053: Unlocking Business Growth with Effective Design Contracts: An In-depth Guide Sep 25, 2023

Show notes

Believe it or not, I see so many designers flying without a net, which is what I call it when you work without a letter of agreement or with one that has absolutely no protection for you in it. A letter of agreement is just another word for a contract, but it sounds much friendlier. Most importantly, a letter of agreement will outline all stipulations, clauses, and information that you and your client need to set up a positive and professional project timeline.

Your business needs to have a document that provides protection for your profits and peace of mind for you as the principal of the firm while at the same time providing clarity and confidence to your client. And even though this is so important, the legalese that most contracts are written in often makes both designers and clients uncomfortable and overwhelmed.

My attorney-approved letter of agreement template is written in plain English and covers everything needed for protection from any snafus that may arise. And in today's episode, I will walk you through my process of creating the right letter of agreement that is not going to overwhelm you or your clients but will still provide all of the clarity, confidence, and cohesiveness needed for your next project.

In this episode, you will hear:

How to craft a thorough and protective letter of agreement in plain English that will be easy for you and your clients to navigate
Which clauses to walk your clients through when reviewing your Letter of Agreement
The importance of presentation and ease of information when crafting your letter

Follow and Review:

Supporting Resources:

View my Letter of Agreement template here
For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

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