It’s amazing what we can do these days with a little technology!

Online interior design services, or e-design, is becoming more and more prevalent because it’s convenient and accessible. It offers the same results as an interior designer who comes to your home and works with you to plan out a room design, but it’s all done virtually online. So it’s really the best of both worlds because now you aren’t limited to working with someone located in your area, but you can work with any designer no matter your location, if they offer e-design services, and you get the same end result!

You may have some questions around how e-design works and wha the process looks like. Is it all done online? Is it truly possible to decorate a home from across the country, without stepping foot inside your home?

Yes, yes, and YES!

If you like online shopping and can handle responding to email, e-design is a great fit for you! Since it’s all done online, you don’t have to worry about a designer coming to your home and scramble to pick up first. We’ve all been there ha. All you have to do is send some pictures of your space, take a few measurements, and sit back while I work my design magic! Once you approve the designs, I’ll send you the design plan and shopping list. Then, you choose to buy pieces on your time as your budget allows, without any pressure.

The best part about e-design compared to traditional full-service design is it is a much quicker turnaround and more affordable. So if you’ve ever wanted to work with a designer on your home, but don’t want to wait months and months to see the end result, e-design is the perfect option.

Here’s a look at my e-design process so you can see how streamlined and simple it really is.

E-Design Process

Step 1. Book Your Spot

The first step after the inquiry is to book a 2-week time frame on my calendar for us to work together. I work with clients on 2-week schedules because it keeps the process streamlined and allows me to focus on just that one project, rather than splitting my time between multiple clients, which ultimately lengthens the turnaround time. That way, you get my full attention and get your designs within 2 weeks!

We find a two-week window that is open for both you and I. It’s important we are both available (ideally not traveling) during those 2 weeks so we can respond to any questions that may come up quickly as not to delay the 2 week turnaround. I try to provide all the information needed upfront to minimize back and forth in email during the 2 weeks. That way, it allows enough time to revise the design if needed!

I have an online calendar that shows my availability so it’s super easy to see the dates I’m available and choose what works best for you. Oh, technology, coming in handy 😉

Once we have a two week schedule that works for both of us, I’ll email over a contract, and the 50% deposit is required to secure your date. This locks your date so no one else can take it.

As soon as you send over the signed contract and 50% deposit (all done easily electronically!), you’ll receive my welcome packet that explains what to expect, helpful documents, and your client homework, which brings me to step 2.

Step 2. Client Homework

I’m passionate about helping others find their signature decorating style, so I of course wanted to include it in my e-design process! Before we can begin designing your space, we need to get to know you, your style, and what you’re drawn to aesthetically, and learn your needs for the space. It starts with a detailed style questionnaire that you fill out. You’ll answer questions like “How would you describe your current style now?”, “If you could envision your dream home, how would it look and feel?” and “What’s your biggest decorating challenge?”

Part two of your client homework are the before photos and measurements from your space You’ll just have to take pictures of the room we’re refreshing from all angles so I can get a good look, and you’ll measure the size of the room. In my welcome packet there will be instructions on how to take the best photos and the measurements so it’s really easy.

Part three of your client homework is all about inspiration. I like using Pinterest for this part because it makes gathering your inspiration super simple. In the welcome packet you’ll find instructions for how to create your Pinterest board of inspiration photos.

Once you finish your client questionnaire, take before photos and measurements, and create your Pinterest board of inspiration, we are ready to get started designing!

Step 3. Design Plan

Once I receive all your client homework, I start designing! This is when the 2 weeks begin, so I will go through your client homework and create your design plan. If needed, we can schedule a Skype call to talk through anything before I start the design. Once I finish your first round design board, I’ll send it over to you for review. You’ll provide any feedback you have and ask for changes if necessary. Then, I’ll revise the designs based on your feedback and send to you for final review. You can ask for any changes as long as we stay within the 2 week timeline, so you never have to worry about not liking the end result! When sourcing, I always stick to your budget and find pieces that are high-quality and something I would feel good about bringing into my own home. I read reviews and do lots of research to make sure I’m not just selecting any piece, but something that will last and meet your standards for the best price. Researching pieces and finding deals is one of my favorite things to do!

At the end of the two weeks once you approve the designs, I’ll hand over the design board, floor plan to scale, master shopping list with links to everything in the design, and any special design instructions for your space. At this point, you have everything you need to purchase items from the shopping list and bring the design to life in your home!

After we wrap up your room project, you can email me with any questions that may come up, if something goes out of stock, etc. I’m here for you the whole way!

If e-design is something you’re interested in and would like me to design your home, I’d love to hear from you! Click here to work together.