In this insightful episode, Melissa Gault takes you deep into the often-overlooked question of "why" in your interior design business. She challenges the assumption that bigger is always better, highlighting the hidden costs and emotional toll that can come with growing a large team or expanding operations. Through personal stories, coaching examples, and real-life experiences, Melissa helps you explore whether what you really need is more, or simply different—and more aligned with what truly matters to you.

You’ll hear how letting go of the hustle and embracing a leaner, more intentional business model can actually lead to higher profits, more creativity, and greater personal satisfaction. Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your design journey, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and make sure your business is built to serve your goals—not someone else’s idea of success.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (02:23) Why one Scottsdale designer let go of her entire team and became more profitable and fulfilled
• (04:13) The truth about million-dollar revenue firms that don’t deliver six-figure personal incomes
• (07:01) The hidden costs of large teams and how overhead can eat away at your profit
• (13:32) How digital tools and remote contractors can help you scale smartly without growing payroll
• (24:18) The hard truths Melissa learned running her own retail store—and why a pop-up may be the smarter move
• (33:33) Why knowing what you want to do with your income will help you achieve it faster

SUPPORTING RESOURCES:

Book a call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

In this episode of Design Business Freedom, you’ll discover how to authentically attract luxury-level clients without losing your voice, your sanity, or your sense of purpose. Melissa Gault dives deep into what high-end clients truly value—not just lavish finishes and designer names, but the refined, discreet experience you provide and the confidence you bring to your process.

Melissa redefines luxury from a mindset perspective, explaining how to position your interior design brand to stand out in the exclusive world of high net worth and ultra high net worth clients. From messaging to client management, you'll learn what it takes to be referred within tight circles and the surprising compromises you may need to make. This episode is a reality check and roadmap for designers who are ready to elevate and lead with authenticity.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

• (01:09) Why luxury is more about experience and clarity than high-end materials
• (02:24) The importance of discretion and low visibility for many ultra-high net worth clients
• (04:35) Lessons from Inventing Anna on navigating elite circles (without the fraud!)
• (07:25) What affluent clients actually want: tested processes, boundaries, and trust
• (08:12) The photography and testimonial restrictions you may face—and how to navigate them
• (18:22) Key red flags to avoid when working with high-end clients (like apologizing for your rates)

SUPPORTING RESOURCES:

• MarketingLuxuryDesign.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.

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.