Exploring interior design career

By Jennifer Adams, Special to the U-T8 a.m.Oct. 18, 2014

Q: I work in the high tech industry and am considering quitting to start my own interior decoration business. Ive always loved playing around with color and fabrics. All my friends think my apartment looks fantastic, so I must have a hidden artistic side. But my boyfriend doesnt think there is a future in interiors; he thinks it would be too hard to start over. What should I do?

N.M.

A: As a lifetime decorator, designer and entrepreneur, I certainly encourage you to jump out on your own and express yourself! A lot of people ask me about working in interiors, and of course I think it is a rewarding and exciting field. And, thousands of designers and decorators would happily argue with your boyfriend.

But please realize that any business, even one in design or art, isnt just glamour, shopping, picking colors and playing with fabrics all day, every day. There is a lot of paperwork and logistics to go along with it.

I highly recommend starting with some classes first, before leaving your job. Theyre often taught by local professionals. Youll learn so much about the field and local resources, which will help you plan ahead for a career change.

If you take only one class, look for one covering the business of interior design. Youll learn about important laws, how to estimate and invoice for your services and how to work with contractors.

Other helpful classes include marketing and accounting in addition to basic design, history of interior design and art, color theory, space planning, materials, presentation skills, programming and drawing.

There may be professional interior design association chapters, such as American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or International Interior Design Association (IIDA). in your area with student or affiliate memberships. This is a great way to meet others in the field and seek mentorship.

Jennifer Adams is an award-winning designer, writer and TV personality. Send your questions to AskJennifer@JenniferAdams.com. For more tips watch Jennifers YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/JenniferAdamsHome or visit http://www.jenniferadams.com.

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Exploring interior design career