Starting an interior design project is a fun and exciting time! But the process of finding the right designer can be excruciating.

Where to start

You will most likely know your designer quite well. On the one hand, we focus on large projects, which means we work with our clients for months or even years. I have been fortunate to work with amazing people, many of whom are now my friends. It is important to know what to ask at the first meeting. After all, you are building long term relationships with the people who will build your dream home.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE BUYING AN INTERIOR DESIGN

Before you meet someone, decide what you like and don't like. Having an idea of your main plot is not an important starting point for either party. If you can articulate what style you prefer, your interior designer will be better able to eliminate concepts that don't work for you. Narrowing your choices down to people you believe you love is a great way to start a conversation.

I recommend you:

• VIEW MAGS INTERIOR DESIGN

Some of my favorites are Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Galerie Magazine and Veranda. Online publications such as Dwell, Lonny, and Rue are also great resources.

• SEARCH ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR FURNISHING IDEAS

Instagram and Pinterest are basically online portfolios for designers from around the world.

• GOOGLE "FURNITURE IN ..."

You're sure to find websites from local designers and local media reporting on the best designs in your area.

• VISIT AN ART GALLERY, ANTIQUE SHOP, OR FASHION BOUTH

A great designer can translate your inspiration and passion into a design that works for you.

Before you meet, take a close look at the designer's website and social media profiles. Designers will post and post their best work. You can tell his style before you meet him in person.

INTERVIEW PROCESS BEGINS...

There are many designers who master unique styles and others who take inspiration from their clients. If you know what you want, choose the former. But I also recommend pushing yourself out of your comfort zone with a designer who practices a variety of aesthetics. In any case, contact a company that has a portfolio that you are comfortable with. Most companies offer advice by phone, email, or in person. At Laura U we have a customer questionnaire that we choose to fill out before a face-to-face meeting. With just a few questions, we can find out if our service meets your needs. And if we're not a match, we'd be happy to put you in touch with a suitable coworker. Now for our top 8 questions to ask yourself when hiring an interior designer:

1. HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN YOUR DESIGN STYLE?

What you are looking for here is how well the designer describes their vision. Does it match yours? At Laura U, for example, we don't specialize in any particular design style. Whether modern, traditional, eclectic, romantic or casual, we are inspired by our customers and their preferences. There are many such designers, but there are also designers who stay within the style profile. If you're interested in a French country look, it makes sense to work with a designer who specializes in that style. But if you're not sure where you sit on the style spectrum, interview different designers and ask about their portfolios.