I am so so thrilled to announce that I have partnered up with Crisp Interiors for a lovely Collaboration that will be released soon.
Before I dish on the details, I want you all to meet Emily Knotts, the designer behind the airy, soft, and ethereal brand. Emily and I crossed paths via my husband, George: they both attended Furman University together.
I had the opportunity to chat with Emily and ask her about her Design Business, Inspiration, and Favorite things. I hope you read along and enjoy her insights.
And stay tuned for our upcoming Collaboration- be sure to sign up for my emails to stay on top of all the wonderful things we have rolling out (there are tons of new things coming out this fall!!!)
Tell us about your business, Crisp Interiors:
Crisp Interiors was born out of a hobby. After my husband and I got married, I quickly realized that the bachelor pad he had lived in for several years needed a bit of a woman's touch. SO the day after our honeymoon, I was ripping out shag carpet and painting walls. Little did I know that that was just the beginning. We conquered project after project together and I started a blog about it along the way.
I never dreamed that anyone (other than my mom) would read it; but somehow it gained attention of some magazines and gained traction that way. People started emailing to see if I could come help them with their own houses. My first thought was that SURELY no one would pay me to do something that I loved so much. To me it just seemed like a dream come true.
Each year since, I've added new elements to the business. What began as one on one client work has evolved into virtual design, a Designer for a Day service, and an online shop where I sell a carefully curated collection of vintage Turkish rugs.
For e-design, how does the process work?
It's a super fun and collaborative process and, honestly, my favorite thing to do now. I love how it makes great design accessible to everyone and takes away the intimidation out of hiring a full service designer.
1. Clients send us pictures and measurements of their space and any inspiration photos that they love (Pinterest works really well for this.)
2. We send over a questionnaire to give us an better idea of their style and their wishes for the space.
3. After that, we get to work designing on their budget and with their unique style in mind.
At the completion of our work, they receive:
-A virtual room rendering
-A secret Pinterest board with loads of sources
-A complete shopping list
& -A floor plan
My very favorite part of the E-Design process is staying in touch with clients and watching their dream room come to life after we've delivered the vision.
How did you get into selling Rugs?
This happened rather organically as well. I was sourcing rugs for clients and saw a need for a one stop shop for vintage rugs with muted pastel tones. I met some wonderful contacts in Turkey and they began finding rugs specifically for Crisp Interiors. Now that they know my style, they send shipments monthly of great quality rugs that make a beautifully subtle statement in your home.
What are some of your favorite, but surprising sources you use for clients?
I'm a HUGE Serena & Lily fan; so that's my go-to source.
But I also love sourcing one of a kind pieces from artists! I think there's something just so special about having unique pieces in your home that tell a story and have meaning behind them.
What Creatives inspire you?
Shea McGee of Studio McGee
What Podcasts are you listening to?
Oh so many. . .
Jenna Kutcher's Goal Digger Podcast
The Business Boutique with Christy Wright
What advice do you have to an up and coming interior designer?
I still have so much to learn myself; but I would say find your niche and stay there! It's so hard to be all things to all people; but if you have a distinct style, your dream clients will find you.
Our style is a very clean aesthetic, very symmetrical, and of course bright, airy and "crisp"
I also have found that building client relationships is the best thing you can do for your business. We try so hard to serve our clients well. We want them to know that they truly matter to us beyond the bottom line. I never want to lose sight of the fact that it really is such a honor to be invited into their home (even virtually!)
Personal Questions-
Favorite Place to Eat: I know this sounds super boring; but we have a build your own salad chain in Charlotte called "Chop't" and I somehow manage to create a $20 salad there every single time. It's ridiculous; but so worth it :
Next Trip: Michael and I have a Chicago trip planned for the Spring. Since we live on a quiet lake, I'm a sucker for the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Next Art Purchase: I dream of a Marquin Campbell original in my daughter's room (THANK YOU!). I've never found another artist who has the ability to mix colors as well as you!
I also love everything that the fabulous Lulie Wallace creates.
Emily Created these E-Design Rooms that show one of my paintings in one of her beautiful rooms!
And here is another pair in one of her spaces - love these so much, Emily!