Designed by Wingnut Social | Interior Design Business

6 Tips to Stay Productive [and SANE] Working From Home

Figuring out how to stay productive when you aren’t used to working from home can drive you insane. Maybe you don’t have a home office and your kids are home with you (making a racket in the background). You’re constantly getting updates and notifications about the impact of the Coronavirus. There are endless distractions in your home. 
Sometimes it’s all just too much. So how do you stay sane? How do you learn to work from home AND be productive? In this minisode of Wingnut Social, Darla and Natalie share 6 tips that will help you stay on track, productive, and sane (whiskey MAY be involved).
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:40] Tip #1: Keep a schedule!
[2:52] Tip #2: Get dressed
[4:06] Tip #3: Give yourself a break 
[4:45] Tip #4: Turn off your notifications
[6:43] Tip #5: Start a journal
[8:39] Tip #6: Stay connected
[11:03] Watch the ‘19 Hours’ webinar
[12:18] Blooper Reel! 
Resources & People Mentioned
19 Hours Virtual Design Conference
Dixie Willard Design
Mydoma Studio
Asana
Slack
Trello
Ivy.co
Zoom
Tip #1: Keep a schedule
Staying in bed a little longer sounds great, right? But Darla and Natalie point out it makes a dent in your productivity. Roll out of bed on time and work your normal schedule. That means starting on time—and ending on time. You’ll be more productive AND it will be an easier transition when things get back to normal.
Tip #2: Get dressed
Darla and Natalie get it—nothing sounds better than rolling out of bed and staying in your pajamas all day long. While taking advantage of working in your skivvies sounds appealing, it can hurt your productivity. Plus, it makes a positive psychological impact to shower, get dressed, do your hair and makeup, and so forth. 
Tip #3: Give yourself a break
Most of us no longer have a commute to work—which means less time to mentally prepare for the day. Schedule a transition time (10-15 minutes) to psych yourself up for the day. Taking breaks in-between scheduled work can also help you—as Darla phrases it—“cleanse your mental palate”. Read a little or listen to music. Do whatever gives you a moment of reprieve. 
Tip #4: Turn OFF your notifications
The ladies understand that you want to stay apprised and up-to-date on the current situation. But during the workday turn off your notifications. The News, social media, etc. can remove your focus—and alter your mood. Watch the news and catch up after your workday is complete.
Tip #5: Write things down
Make yourself a to-do list of things you need to do for clients, project management tasks, etc. Get yourself in order and stay on-task. Darla points out that journaling about your day and things you’re grateful for can make an impact on your mental well-being. Listen to hear the ladies chat about how they journal. 
Tip #6: Stay connected
The last—but not least—tip is to stay connected with your team. Don’t isolate yourself in your home. Familiarize yourself with different tools you can use (Asana, Slack, Trello, Ivy, Mydoma studio, etc.) to keep the lines of communication open. You have the time to get over the learning curve! 
Listen to the episode for all the details—and a way to have fun with your family while under quarantine. 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
 
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

How the CARES Act Could Help YOUR Small Business with Aaron Smyle

The CARES Act is the topic of discussion around the USA right now—and for good reason. It’s providing economic relief in a time of great need. But it also plays a huge role in economic relief for small businesses. Darla and Natalie have been trying to muddle through what it means for their business and decided to ask a professional—Aaron Smyle. 
Aaron is the owner of Smyle & Associates, tax consultants that serve businesses and individuals in the New York City area. He has an MBA, MST, and is an Enrolled Agent (EA), a federally-authorized tax practitioner who has technical expertise in the field of taxation. In this episode of Wingnut Social, he breaks down how the CARES Act helps small businesses.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[3:06] Aaron Smyle makes the CARES Act understandable
[5:12] How does the Payroll Protection Program work?
[11:18] Implications for S Corps and solopreneurs
[14:27] Details on the Economic Injury Disaster Loan 
[25:28] Aaron explains the Tax Cut and Jobs Act
[27:40] Enhancement of charitable contributions
[29:20] Is this the wake-up call that we need?
[30:35] Why you should pay your taxes if you owe them
[34:32] Deductions that do not apply
[38:33] Connect with Aaron Smyle
[44:22] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Aaron Smyle
Smyle & Associates
Aaron on LinkedIn
Smyle & Associates Instagram
Resources & People Mentioned
CARES Act
Payroll Protection Program
Economic Injury Disaster Loan
COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan Application
How can the CARES Act help small interior-design businesses?
As of April 3rd, registration will open online for the CARES act. The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) was part of the legislation that was passed. So what is it? At its core, it’s a forgivable loan from the government to help cover payroll for 8 weeks. You’re allowed to borrow 2.5x the monthly average of your yearly payroll costs (wages, independent contractors, health insurance costs, and retirement benefits are included in the calculation). It also includes owners’ compensation.
As a simple example, if your average payroll is $10,000 a month, you can borrow up to $25,000 through the PPP. Eligible expenses that can be considered for forgiveness are rent, utilities, interest payments, and payroll. The caveat is that you HAVE to keep people on the payroll.  If you do not have people on payroll (or wages being paid out), only an amount up to 25% of what is borrowed can be forgiven for rent, utilities and interest. If you’ve already laid some people off, you have until June 30th to hire them back and prove that you’re consistently paying the payroll that you were prior to the coronavirus pandemic. 
If your numbers track correctly and you’ve proven you’ve retained your employees, the whole loan amount will be forgiven. At this time, the assistance is for 2 months. If the Coronavirus pandemic persists longer than projected, they may need to pass further legislation. Keep listening as Aaron covers some details for S-Corps, interest rates if your loan is not completely forgiven, and more. 
Consider the Economic Injury Disaster Loan 
Aaron points out that small business owners should apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)—where the first $10,000 is technically a grant. Supposedly, you should have access to the funds within 3 days of applying and no proof is necessary (unlike the records required for the PPP). You can still apply for the PPP, but the $10,000 will be subtracted from the amount that would be forgiven. So if you qualify for $50,000, $40,000 would be forgiven to account for this $10,000 grant. The EIDL is the best option for solopreneurs as it is eligible to cover their wages AND it can roll over into a loan if necessary. 
During this time, payroll taxes that you owe can be deferred for a period of time. Aaron implores you to pay this if at all possible. If you go out of business, you as the owner will be personally liable for those taxes and required to pay them back. Aaron points out that we are all facing uncertainty and that you need to step back and evaluate and make the correct decision for your business despite your emotions. Aaron poignantly states,“Don’t make short-term decisions that have long-term consequences”. 
Be sure to listen to the entire episode—Aaron unpacks the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, enhancement of charitable contributions, and all of the little details around relief for your small business. 
UPDATE:
We told you this was moving fast.  A recent update disallowed the payment of 1099 contractors from the definition of “payroll costs” going into the equation of what can be borrowed.  The definition is now: 
Payroll costs consist of compensation to employees (whose principal place of residence is the United States) in the form of salary, wages, commissions, or similar compensation; cash tips or the equivalent (based on employer records of past tips or, in the absence of such records, a reasonable, good-faith employer estimate of such tips); payment for vacation, parental, family, medical, or sick leave; allowance for separation or dismissal; payment for the provision of employee benefits consisting of group health care coverage, including insurance premiums, and retirement; payment of state and local taxes assessed on compensation of employees; and for an independent contractor or sole proprietor, wage, commissions, income, or net earnings from self-employment or similar compensation.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
 
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Is the Brick-And-Mortar Furniture Industry in a Tailspin? with Warren Shoulberg

Is the furniture industry spiraling out of control due to the likes of online retailers such as Wayfair and Houzz? What impact do these online monoliths make on brick-and-mortar retail giants? Warren Shoulberg joins Darla and Natalie to dissect the industry—he shares who he thinks the winners are, who will tailspin out of business, and where interior design showrooms fall in the mix. 
Warren is an award-winning Journalist & Consultant for the home furnishing industry. He’s a regular contributor to Forbes and Business of Home, as well as others such as Home Textiles Today and The Robin Report. He’s an expert in an industry that’s currently in upheaval. Listen to this episode of Wingnut Social to hear his take
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:47] Word to the wise: Vet your tradespeople
[6:41] Warren Shoulberg weighs in on the furniture industry
[7:40] How Restoration Hardware is shaking up the industry
[12:36] eCommerce must be a factor in your business
[17:28] Where does Warren think the market will trend?
[20:48] How furniture showrooms should proceed
[23:52] Darla’s love for Pier 1 may come to an abrupt end
[26:41] Do interior designers have a shot at competing?
[28:45] Why did Wayfair layoff 500+ people?
[32:36] What up Wingnut! Round
[40:19] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Warren Shoulberg
Warren on LinkedIn
Warren on Forbes
Business of Home
Warren’s Blog: StupidBusiness.com
Resources & People Mentioned
The Economist Magazine
Restoration Hardware
Ethan Allen
Pier 1
Julia Molloy Wingnut Social episode
How Restoration Hardware has taken the furniture industry by storm
Restoration hardware is a success story in the industry. Capturing interior design business is their ticket to success. They are setting the precedent for the industry. They’ve changed their business model and started closing neighborhood stores in favor of what they call ‘galleries’. These galleries are spacious showrooms—thousands upon thousands of square feet—with cafés and wine bars woven in. 
They’re redefining the retail industry as we know it.
They’re becoming the envy of every furniture retailer in the industry. Warren pointed out that if Ethan Allen was on their game they would’ve been the first to embrace this concept—but they weren’t. RH is making the furniture market part of the hospitality industry. They’re still selling furniture online and leveraging both brick-and-mortar and eCommerce.
Little Designers need to factor eCommerce into their business
Online retailers like Wayfair have succeeded in undercutting the prices of most of the industry—but at what cost? It seems they are circling the drain, having recently laid off over 500 employees. Warren believes they’ve operated as if they’re Amazon, but don’t have the other income streams to offset their costs like Amazon does. There is one thing they don’t have that other retailers do: a physical location. 80% of sales are still happening in physical businesses, so it’s important to balance the equation. 
You can’t ignore the internet and cut it out of your strategy like Burlington did (now they’re suffering). Pier 1 is losing many stores and will likely file bankruptcy. They both failed to stay relevant, and their future in the industry is shaky at best. You MUST find a way to incorporate eCommerce into your business model as well as traditional showrooms. 
All this to say, you can’t be all things to all people. Be like Restoration Hardware and find your niche—master what sets you apart. Consumers still want to feel texture and judge color in person. There will always be a place for a physical showroom. Balance that with online offerings that espouse your unique and specific point of view, and you’ll find success. Listen to the whole episode for the in-depth discussion of the furniture industry and where it’s headed.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
 
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Why You Should Create an Instagram AR Filter

Wingnut Social has it’s own Instagram AR filter! You can hop on over to the Wingnut Social Instagram to check it out—and join their current challenge. In this episode, Darla and Natalie talk about WHY they’re embracing Instagram filters and why you should too. They also chat about a few FUN (and maybe productive) things you can do to ‘while away’ the hours under quarantine. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:45] Natalie misses Jeri Cerutti
[1:36] THE Virtual Design Industry Conference
[3:21] Check out the Wingnut Instagram AR filter!
[4:30] How to create an augmented reality filter
[6:16] Get creative with your filter
[7:07] Linda Holt’s Isolation Facebook Challenge
[8:25] Switch to virtual consultations and presentations
[10:44] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
19 HOURS: Virtual Design Industry Conference
How to make your own Instagram AR Filter
THE Jeri Cerutti
Spark AR Studio
Spark AR Review Policy
Linda Holt’s Facebook Challenge Group
WHY you should create an Instagram AR filter for your design business
Firstly, Darla and Natalie think it’s just a whole lotta fun. Plus, it’s simple. You can download ‘Spark AR Studio’ and follow the directions linked in the resources above to get started. It guides you through the process to create a fun filter. You can use an image, audio file, animations, etc. You can change its behavior and decide how you want your filter to look, move, or interact. 
Also, you need to get creative with your filters! You can incorporate your business logo or something similar. Perhaps you can create something glam that glitters and sparkles for your high-end clientele. It’s all about creating engagement with your followers, so they recommend going ahead and creating a challenge so they’ll use your filter. 
[NOTE: Facebook has currently suspended reviews and publishing of filters during the Coronavirus pandemic—hopefully that will change soon]. 
Keep the business afloat while working remote
Rhymes and puns aside—the design industry is stepping up and pulling together. Darla is speaking virtually for the 19 HOURS Virtual Design Industry Conference (the brainchild of LuAnn Nigara and Sarah Daniele) in lieu of what would've been an in-person speaking gig. 
Darla Powell interiors have shifted to doing virtual consultations and presentations with the use of modern technology—and it’s going well. Vendors are offering to do virtual tours of the showrooms and hand-delivering samples to doorsteps as-needed.
Linda Holt has launched her ‘Isolating at home cellphone photo challenge’ to increase engagement and give designers an outlet for their creativity while stuck at home. Just like creating an AR filter, It’s something fun that helps bolster your spirit. 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

How to Launch a Design Career at ANY Age with Lauren Brown

You can reinvent yourself and launch a design career at any age—as long as you have drive, determination, with a little bit of moxie thrown in. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to make the switch, let today’s guest be the inspiration that you CAN make it happen. Lauren Brown joins Darla and Natalie to share how she built a business and launched a design career at 65. 
Lauren had a long career in luxury sales and design (making, on average, close to a million dollars a year). After settling into retirement—or what she likes to call her ‘sabbatical’—she felt restless. She knew she had more to give—but she had given away ALL of her client-base to colleagues. So she used a combination of research, workshops, and listening to podcasts to launch a new design business. Listen to this episode of Wingnut Social to hear her story.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[3:55] How Darla reinvented herself at 47
[6:36] Lauren Browns God-wink moment
[9:45] How Lauren launched her design career
[12:36] The unusual marketing Lauren has embraced
[19:17] Why digital marketing is worth the learning curve
[22:38] How to overcome ‘Imposter Syndrome’
[25:18] Put a system and process in place
[25:50] Shayla Copas’ Impact on Lauren
[30:28] Connect with Lauren
[31:15] What Up Wingnut! Round
[34:32] This is YOUR time to shine
[38:06] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Lauren Brown
Lauren’s Website
Lauren on Twitter
Lauren on Facebook
Lauren on Instagram
ADesignersTouchByLauren(at)gmail.com
Resources & People Mentioned
Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
Martha O’Hara Interiors
Jeffrey Fisher Home
Shayla Copas Interiors
Joan Ravasy Design
Lauren launched her design career after a ‘God-wink’ moment
When Lauren hit 65 she had an ‘aha moment’. She realized she was getting older and had to redefine what life was all about. She knew she’d been given a gift for design and understanding color. She couples that with passion and enthusiasm, and a love for life and people. She drew inspiration from Darla’s story and how she reinvented herself after a long career in law enforcement. 
Darla sharing her story gave Lauren the courage she needed to take the leap and start over. 
So Lauren Googled “How to start your own business” and began building a binder full of different resources. She learned about social media, hashtags, and everything design-business related. She started listening to WingnutSocial, following Shayla Copas, and attending workshops at Market. She drove full-speed ahead, determined to make her dream a reality. 
Her mantra to herself has become, “Lauren, you can do this too. You have God-given gifts and talents and you need to keep using those until you can’t breathe any more on this earth”.
Lauren’s marketing is a combination of ‘old’ and ‘new’ 
Digital marketing is a whole new world for Lauren, which is one reason why she listened to the Wingnut Social podcast relentlessly. She now has her business on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and has invested in a website. One month after launching her design career, she’s being featured on this episode of Wingnut Social. This gal knows how to make waves. She’s building a steady following and has learned how to make an impact across platforms. 
She’s also embraced print media, and sent out press releases to various magazines and papers in her area, eventually getting her story published. Before recording this episode she was featured on the radio. She also advertises her design business on an area billboard—and has gotten some traction because of it. It goes to show a mesh of old and new marketing tactics can be effective. Trying something different can get you recognition, so learn to be creative. 
Listen to the whole episode to hear how Lauren is navigating the journey and overcoming the mindset struggles you can face. The ladies also chat about getting systems and processes in place, and the impact podcasts have made on her journey. 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
 
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Should You Turn Your Blog Into a Blogcast? with Jeri Cerutti

Do you have a blog and are looking to gain more exposure? Perhaps your site is SEO optimized, adored with images galore, and your writing skills are stellar. But people are becoming increasingly busy and just don’t have the time to read a blog post like they used to. 
Creating a video isn’t necessarily the answer—but what about a blogcast? Have you heard the term? Jeri Cerutti co-hosts this Monday Marketing Minisode with Natalie to talk about her genius idea to turn her blog into an audio recording, AKA—a blogcast. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:58] Blogging with a twist
[3:54] Where did Jeri get the idea to record?
[5:35] Why you should consider a blogcast
[8:59] Jeri Cerutti is a genius
[12:38] Blooper Reel!
Connect with THE Jeri Cerutti
Jeri’s Website
Jeri on Instagram
Jeri on Twitter
Blogcasting—blogging with a twist
It all started when Jeri asked her son-in-law if he would read her blog and give her feedback. He said he didn’t have time to read, but if she recorded it for him, then he would listen. Natalie has also had the opportunity to listen to Jeri read to her grandchildren, and thought “I could listen to this”. She has the perfect voice for audio.
Also—to be honest—not everyone loves to read. Some people, such as Natalie, deal with Dyslexia. Others don’t have the time to sit down and read a blog. A lot of American’s have long commutes—so why not convert your blog to audio? Which led the ladies to this question: why not record all of Jeri’s blog posts to create a blogcast? 
Podcasting can help broaden your reach
Creating a podcast—or in this case, a blogcast—is one of the easiest ways to broaden your reach. It’s a great way for the visually impaired to get exposure to your content. Not only can they hear it, but they can hear it in YOUR voice, with your unique tone and inflection. It speaks to your authenticity. 
Natalie and Darla think the idea is genius. After all, who doesn’t want to broaden their audience? It should be every blogger’s goal to reach more people with their content. We live in a busy world and whatever can be done to connect with more people should be done. 
Alright Wingnuts, it’s time to weigh in: Would you rather read a blog or listen to it? 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

A Candid Conversation About the Coronavirus with Jane Dagmi

The Coronavirus pandemic is making waves around the world and shaking up many industries. Restaurants and bars are shutting down, big-box retailers are debating closing their doors, and whole cities around the US are going on lockdown. Countries are closing their borders and banning travel. Everyone is left wondering: how in the world will our design business survive? 
In this special bonus episode of the Wingnut Social podcast, Jane Dagmi—the Editor in Chief of Designer’s Today—joins Natalie and Darla to talk about surviving COVID-19. Listen to the whole episode for a discussion about High Point Market, supporting small businesses, and how to operate a design business during social distancing protocols. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[2:32] Jane Dagmi shares how Designer’s Today is moving forward
[6:03] How to mitigate financial loss from businesses closing
[8:50] How to help vendors and showrooms impacted
[11:13] Take the time to polish your social media
[13:03] Use the technology tools available to you
[15:24] Develop a strategic plan for moving forward
[17:37] Ideas for commercial designers
[22:55] How to keep yourself and your client’s safe
[29:20] How the Coronavirus will impact High Point Market
[37:38] What up Wingnut round!
[41:00] How to handle your social media during this crisis
Connect with Jane Dagmi
Jane on LinkedIn
Jane’s Instagram
Designer’s Today
Something About Interior Designers Podcast
Jane’s 1st episode on Wingnut Social
Resources & People Mentioned
How to Handle Your Social Media During the Coronavirus Crisis
Wingnut Social Design Harmony Episode
Martha O’Hara Interiors
Lisa Kahn Designs
Shannon Ggem Design
High Point Market
Keep yourself and your clients safe
The ladies agree that technology is a life-saver—email, phone calls, zoom, and virtual tours make this uncertain time manageable. Take advantage of the tools available to you. If your client doesn’t feel comfortable meeting in person, do a zoom meeting. Do a consultation over FaceTime. If you do still meet in-person, you must do things differently to protect each other. 
Darla tries to lighten the mood with humor. She jokes that she usually greets potential clients with a kiss and a hug—but for now, she’ll give them a virtual fist-bump (with the disclaimer that down the road they’ll get a good hug). Wash your hands frequently, practice social distancing, and always leave the ball in the client’s court. Even if you’re comfortable continuing with a meeting, they may not be. It’s okay to reschedule or switch to a virtual meeting. 
A fellow designer, Shannon Ggem, started sending her clients an email stating how she’s carrying on her business during the pandemic. She even goes so far as to let them know that she travels directly from her home to theirs, outlines what she brings with her, and lets them know that it’s all been disinfected regularly. While it is a very detailed option, something simple and straightforward outlining precautions you’re taking can help reassure your clients. 
Tips for your business—and how to support each other’s
Many people are now working from home with their children in tow as schools and businesses are closing. Darla and Natalie point out that it can be a great time to spend quality time with your family. You could also take a design class, complete a certification, or perhaps finish editing a podcast episode you’ve been working on.
Natalie and Darla also recommend taking this time to polish your social media. Double-down on your social and get your brand out there, so that you haven’t lost steam when the pandemic dies down. You could even double your marketing expenditure or launch an e-design program. 
Many small businesses will find themselves struggling during this trying time. With the postponement of the High Point Market—a 6.7 billion-dollar industry—many vendors and showrooms were left high and dry. Natalie points out that you should try and find local showrooms or small businesses that carry what may have been featured at High Point and purchase from them. 
If you’re struggling to navigate the sudden change (or are a baby designer that’s just launching their career) don’t be afraid to reach out to established designers and ask for help. Seek out advice—and listen to the whole podcast for more ideas. 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Learn Savvy Strategies for Building a Design Firm with Julia Miller

Julia Miller transitioned to being a full-time designer in February of 2020—and already has 15,000 Instagram followers. Her business is growing full-speed ahead. So how did she build a following so quickly? What does she attribute her success to? She shares her trade secrets in this episode of the Wingnut Social podcast. If you’re a new designer and looking to gain traction in the design space don’t miss this informative episode!
Julia Miller is the owner of J Miller Interiors, a design firm based in Minneapolis, MN. She strives to use vintage, textural, and artisan pieces to create welcoming and balanced spaces. While she can’t be considered a ‘baby designer’ anymore, she’s found great success in a short time. Listen to hear how she took action and made it happen! 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:20] Today’s guest [Julia Miller] is super freaking impressive!
[4:12] How did Julia get 15,000 Instagram followers?
[7:55] Julia’s secret to her quick success
[12:30] Investing money in the beginning saves you in the long run
[14:48] Don’t be afraid to develop your own authentic voice
[20:10] Julia’s ‘Sunday Saves’ catapulted her career
[24:08] The ONE thing Julia would do differently
[25:37] Delegation is key to scaling and growing
[26:31] What up Wingnut! Round
[29:10] What makes Julia stand out from the crowd
[32:03] Blooper Reel!
 
Connect with Julia Miller
Julia’s Website
Julia’s Instagram
Julia on Pinterest
Resources & People Mentioned
The Business of Design Podcast
A Well-Designed Business Podcast
Real Talk Design Podcast
Peter Lang, CPA
Hashtag Legal
Ivy Business Management Software
QuickBooks
Lindsey Brooke Design
The Identité Collective
BOOK: The Wisdom of the Enneagram
From side-hustle to full-time designer
Julia has always loved and had a knack for design. Her journey started when she and her husband bought and renovated their own house—and documented the whole journey on Instagram. What started as something informal became a huge opportunity. People were reaching out asking Julia if she’d be willing to take clients—so she did. 
Her husband was 100% on board. He believed in her talent and knew she had the drive to success. But she would need to button-up the business side of things and get a plan in place. So what did she do? She started listening to podcasts. She binged Wingnut Social, The Business of Design, A Well-Designed Business, and Real Talk Design.
She took in a lot of information quickly—and acted on it. She hired her CPA after listening to a podcast he was featured on (Peter Lang). She also found her VA and lawyer from the free resources that podcasts were providing. She had a system and process in place and it boosted her confidence. Above all—she took action. She learned what she needed to do to be successful and ran full-speed ahead with confidence. 
Julia’s ‘Sunday Saves’ brings designers together
While many designers are hesitant to share the work of other designers, Julia embraces it wholeheartedly. After all, other designers' business savvy advice is what got her business off the ground. So what is ‘Sunday Saves’? Every Sunday, Julia shares 15-25 images that she’s saved throughout the week on her Instagram story. It can be spaces she’s loved or a tile or backsplash that was intriguing. She credits the appropriate designers, photographers, and stylists. 
She then takes her favorite from that group and features it on her post feed that day. She’ll save the last 100 features in her highlights. She’s not worried about featuring someone else’s work over her own. Julia believes it is an amazing way to connect with other designers and build relationships. The best part is that it works. It has catapulted her business forward. Clients love the resources she provides and fellow designers thank her for the recognition. 
This episode is jam-packed with other resources and strategies Julia has used to build her business from the ground up. We talk about software, mentorship opportunities, authenticity, and much more. Be sure to listen to the whole episode!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Contemplating a Free Consultation? Here’s How it Impacted Our Bottom-Line

If you’re contemplating a FREE consultation for your design business, it can be downright terrifying. It’s hard to imagine that giving your services away for free could
Contemplating a Free Consultation? Here’s How it Impacted Our Bottom-Line
make a positive impact. Darla and Natalie gave it a go—and this Monday's Marketing Minisode is all about their results. To find out if they give a free consultation a thumbs up or thumbs down, listen now!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[2:00] Implementing free design consultations
[6:14] Sandra Funks Interior ‘Design Standard’ program
[6:48] A free consultation’s impact on their close rate
[8:44] Can being more relaxed help with your close rate?
[12:07] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Sandra Funk’s Episode on Wingnut Social!
Sandra’s upcoming program ‘The Interior Design Standard’
Free Consultation: yay or nay? 
Darla and Natalie stopped charging for design consultations in Nov. of 2019 (just slightly before their episode with Sandra aired). While initially hesitant, Sandra had them convinced that it could work. They went from charging $450 per consultation to charging nothing. Zilch. Nada.
In the time following, they scheduled 10 free consultations. Of those 10, 50% of the clients chose to sign and work with them. Natalie crunched the numbers, and with a paid consultation they were only closing about 42%. 
In a short time, they had an 8% increase in effectiveness—and the only variable that changed was their pricing. Or was it? 
The impact of a free consultation
The only concrete variable that changed was moving from a paid to a free design consultation, but it made a large impact on Darla—and on the potential client. She used to go into a consultation completely anxious, poised and ready to spout design ideas and try and impress the client with her knowledge. 
Now, Darla is more relaxed, knowing that this first meeting is to get to know the client(s) and make sure they’re a good fit for each other. Engaging with potential clients in a more relaxed manner has positively impacted their psyche—and their closing rate. She’ll often have people text her saying, “We can’t wait to work with you!” since implementing the free consultation.
She’s no longer walking in and doing off-the-cuff design and giving far too much information to the client. She realized that doing so cheapens your work. Why should they hire you if you can provide the value they need in a two-hour conversation? 
Listen to the episode to hear their full take and why you should check out Sandra Funk’s ‘Design Standard’ that launches April 8th!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Alignable: Should Interior Designers Use This Networking Site? with CEO Eric Groves

Have you heard of Alignable? Darla and Natalie recently set up an account, but are wondering if it’s worth the effort. After all, they’re on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn (the list goes on). Should they invest their time in another social network that seems similar to LinkedIn? Eric Groves, the Founder and CEO of Alignable, joins the gals to share WHY it’s worth your time—don’t miss it!
Prior to founding Alignable, Eric spent 10 years as a founding executive of Constant Contact leading their marketing efforts. He’s the author of ‘The Constant Contact Guide to Email Marketing’. With over 25 years in the industry, he is an expert on engagement, email marketing, small business development, and much more.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:46] You get what you pay for
[5:38] Today’s topic: What is Alignable?
[10:25] How does Alignable work?
[11:30] Why Alignable can’t be compared to LinkedIn
[13:18] Does alignable fit into your marketing scheme?
[19:18] We weigh Alignable’s free versus premium account 
[22:08] The direction Alignable is taking
[23:33] The client-facing side of alignable
[27:08] What up Wingnut! Round
Connect with Eric Groves
Eric on LinkedIn
Eric on Twitter
Resources & People Mentioned
RESA Event: April 9th from 6-8 pm
High Point Spring Market
Alignable
Alignable Local Leaders Program
BOOK: Snow Crash
BOOK: The Constant Contact Guide to Email Marketing
Alignable enables relationships
Alignable is an online referral network for small business owners. Eric describes it as a way to find new customers by building trusted relationships with each other. He’s spent a lot of time working with small business owners, and everyone said the majority of their referrals were from word of mouth. Eric points out that it’s not like advertising—you can’t just spend $500 on an ad budget and get more referrals. But Alignable is a place that can make that happen. 
Small business owners typically get most of their referrals within 5-10 miles of where they’re physically located. Alignable allows you to search for business owners in that radius—then introduce yourself and start building relationships. Darla endearingly referred to them as “The tinder for business referrals”. 
You can search for whoever fits your target demographic for clients: architects, general contractors, real estate agents, etc. Keep listening to learn the simple strategy to connect with the right people. 
Should you invest your time in Alignable? 
When asked if Alignable could be compared to LinkedIn, Eric pointed out the main difference: LinkedIn was created with the original intent of helping professionals be recruited and hired. Eric stated that Alignable is more about finding a business opportunity. 50% of the 4.5 million users on Alignable are business to consumer and the other 50% are B2B. 
But does alignable fit into your marketing scheme? Eric tossed back a question in response: “When you think about your best source of referrals, what percentage of those referrals are coming from other business owners vs. consumers?”. Darla and Natalie responded that they get about 30% of their leads from referrals. 
Eric points out that if they took that 30% of their time and focused on building a referral network with people who would naturally refer customers to them, that they’d likely increase word-of-mouth referrals to 50%.
Eric goes on to share some specific examples of how users doubled and tripled their business, local versus national exposure, the client-facing side of alignable, and where they’re heading next. Don’t miss this engaging and informative episode!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Is Email Marketing Dying? Our Top 5 Tips to Keep Yours Alive for Your Design Business.

Five Email Marketing Tips:
Listen on: Apple Podcasts
 
Is Email Marketing Dying?
Have you written off email marketing? Are you a social media junkie (so are we by the way) who’s decided that email is yesterday’s way of doing business? 
 
In spite of the deluge of social media apps on the market, communicating via email still works! But the rules of engagement have changed. This Monday Minisode sets the record straight on the effectiveness of emails, the dos, and don’ts of emailing and the best times to send them.  
 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode of Wingnut Social
 
[2:50] Ask before you send.
 
[5:24] Personalize your emails and pay attention to subject lines.
 
[5:24] Make sure your emails are mobile-friendly.
 
[7:12] Check your email signature. 
 
[8:33] Try sending during off-hours.
 
[12:35] Blooper Reel
 
Resources & People Mentioned
 
General Data Protection Regulation
 
E-Mail Marketing Has Rules of Engagement
 
No one likes a spammer, but Europe really doesn’t like them. Did you know that in 2018 Europe implemented the General Data Protection Regulation to prevent commercial businesses from sending unsolicited emails? It’s that serious, Wingnuts.
 
The U.S. hasn’t gone that far yet, but when it comes to email marketing, steer clear of being spammy. If the inbox owner didn’t give you the A-OK, don’t press that send button, period. Instead of sending spammy emails, develop a systematic way of collecting email addresses - with explicit permission. Besides, it’s insurance against whatever is coming down the pipeline.
 
When sending emails, best practices include:
 
Get permission
Start with a great subject line
Use emojis
Personalize the email
Make it mobile-friendly
Use https:// to avoid the spam folder 
Timing Your Emails
 
Once you’ve got all of your permissions in place, it’s time to consider sending times. When is the best time to send your email? What day of the week is ideal?
 
Back in the day, Tuesday was the best day to send out emails. But things are a-changing. Testing is the new Tuesday!
 
Experiment with different days of the week. Sending emails during off-hours has a way of creating success stories. In fact, we landed an AH-mazing client by uncharacteristically sending out our email on a Sunday. Toot-toot!
Go Easy on the GIFs, Videos and Pics
 
GIFs may be all fun and games, but they ultimately increase your email’s load time. So yes add them, but don’t go overboard. Emojis and videos work the same way. A few are good; too many are a no-no! You want those emails opened, not deleted, right?
 
Emails are just one more tool in your toolbox for getting your brand in front of the right client. But best practices are key. So tune in to this episode and you’ll be optimizing your emails and your leads in no time!
 
Connect with Darla & Wingnut Social
 
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
 
Subscribe to The Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn

The Hidden ROI of Starting a Podcast with Katie Freeman

Should you consider starting a podcast? Is the return on investment worth the time and effort put in? Or will you just be wasting your hard-earned time? Darla grew up listening to talk radio and knew when they launched Wingnut Social that a podcast would be a terrific vehicle for their niche. But what about other niches? Darla and Natalie’s guest today, Katie Freeman, shares her take on the industry—and why it’s been worth it for her.
Katie is a furniture designer and creator, owner of Freeman Furnishings, and host of the Maker Mom podcast. She believes working with your hands is good for the soul and spends her time creating heirloom-quality woodwork. Listen to this episode to hear why she started her podcast, how it’s helped her career, and what she hopes the future of her furniture design business will look like. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:52] They’re going to Brazil!
[4:58] How Katie Freeman became a furniture designer
[7:33] Katie’s Podcast: The Maker Mom podcast
[10:19] The clientele she’s gotten from her podcast
[12:17] Was a local audience by design?
[14:43] Build credibility and brand recognition 
[16:06] Would Katie do anything differently?
[18:15] The hidden ROI of starting a podcast
[19:58] How does Patreon come into play?
[21:32] What up Wingnut! round
[23:56] Should Darla start another podcast?
[28:22] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Katie Freeman
Katie on LinkedIn
Katie’s podcast
Freeman Furnishings
Freeman Furnishings on Instagram
Resources & People Mentioned
RESA Event: April 9th from 6-8 pm at Keller Williams Building in Coral Gables
Darla is speaking at Podfest in Orlando!
Peaceful Nest Boutique Home Staging
Affordable Interior Design podcast
Wingnut Social Social Media Stats episode
Wingnut Social Joann Kandrac and Kelly Kole episode
Workbench Con
Patreon
BOOK: Crushing It! By Gary Vaynerchuk
Is starting a podcast a waste of time? 
Katie Freeman started woodworking as a way to reconnect with who she is while balancing being a mom to two little ones. She is an avid podcast listener and enjoys listening to other makers and creators. But she noticed something she found disconcerting: none of the voices she heard were female. She decided it was time to create a podcast and get a female voice in her industry.
She honed in on a niche for Mom’s who wanted to run a business while raising a family. So she launched her podcast on 10/19/2018 and has garnered quite a following. Katie points out that it hasn’t led to her landing a design client—but it has helped her become a trusted voice in her community. In fact, 50% of her listeners are local, and she believes that’s essential to her success. 
The hidden ROI of a podcast
While Katie hopes that someday her podcast will help her land some design clients, it has led to some wonderful opportunities. She can point people to listen to her podcast—with a built-in track record—versus just pitching them. Because of it, she’s been able to land speaking engagements and is actually jetting off to present at a conference soon after the recording of this episode.
The local recognition she’s gained for being an expert in her space has led to an unusual opportunity—being able to teach classes at a local shared maker’s space. She shares her class schedule on the podcast and lets her listeners know they can sign up for it. 
Because she creates and edits her podcast herself, she has very little overhead cost. With the opportunities it has afforded her, starting a podcast has been worth it. Keep listening to find out how she markets herself locally, what she would have done differently, and how she uses Patreon to bring in income. 
BONUS CONTENT: Darla and Natalie chat about the potential to launch another podcast! Don’t miss it!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

The NEW LinkedIn ‘Featured’ Section: Showcase Your Accomplishments

LinkedIn is rolling out a new (and highly requested) page section that will allow you to highlight your latest accomplishments: the ‘featured’ section. How is it different from the ‘activities’ section? What content can you include? Learn more by listening to this Monday Minisode of the Wingnut Social podcast!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:26] LinkedIn’s new feature
[4:46] What to add to the ‘featured’ section
[8:29] Blooper Reel
Resources & People Mentioned
LinkedIn
LinkedIn Featured Section
Detailed Instructions to add to ‘featured’ section
Darla Powell Interiors LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s new ‘featured’ section allows you to highlight whatever you want
We all know that LinkedIn is great for B2B marketing and making connections with professionals. So getting them to take note of your accomplishments—and do more than just connect with you—is key. You want to GRAB their attention. LinkedIn’s new feature should make that easier. 
While it’s still being rolled out and not yet available to all users, here’s what you can expect:
It’s a section that will be directly below your profile header and above the ‘activities’ section. Simply add it as a profile section and choose the content that you want to be featured, whether it’s something eye-catching or a noteworthy accomplishment. 
What should designers add to the featured section? 
The beauty is that you get to pick whatever you want to be featured. Here are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Featured on an episode of HGTV? Add the link here!
What about a YouTube video of a space you designed? Check!
Post images of a recently designed space that you’re proud of
Recently featured in an article? Add the link here.
One of the top 50 interior designers in Miami? Show it off.
If you want to add something you’ve already posted on your LinkedIn profile, simply choose the ‘star’ next to ‘featured’ below your post to add or remove it—it’s that simple. The most recently featured item will be visible first or you can choose how to order the content.
Not only do you get to showcase your latest and greatest content, but it allows you to spice up your page and show off your personality. What could be better? Darla and Natalie are pretty excited—Listen to this minisode for all the details!
How do you feel about LinkedIn’s latest feature?
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

What is Design Harmony and Why Should Designers Care? with Michelle Castagna and Mike Peterson

Design harmony is a philosophy that’s becoming a movement embraced around the industry—and for good reason. More and more research is coming to light about the health benefits of interior design. Michelle Castagna and Mike Peterson join Natalie and Darla to talk about what design harmony is, what it means for the design industry, how to become certified in it and much more.
Michelle Castagna is the owner and president of Muse Design Studio. She boasts over 20 years of experience in the design industry. She wants to encourage designers to embrace design harmony and help their clients experience a healthier & stress-free home. 
Mike Peterson is the founder and president of Visionary Design Marketing.. He specializes in strategic marketing consultations for the design industry. In this episode, he shares some valuable insight into what the medical field is saying about design harmony and how to market your experience in the field.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:32] Darla and Natalie are speaking at High Point Market!
[5:55] Upcoming certification in design harmony
[7:02] A simple definition of design harmony
[8:42] The Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku
[9:45] Use home technology to execute a healthier environment
[13:07] The awareness of design harmony in residential/commercial design
[14:54] How a designer can market this approach in their business
[17:47] What will the certification process look like?
[22:08] The goal is to make the certification affordable for everyone to embrace
[25:42] The medical industry is acknowledging something that we aren’t
[26:51] What up Wingnut! Round
[34:45] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Michelle Castagna
LinkedIn
Muse Design Studio
Muse Design on Instagram
Connect with Mike Peterson
LinkedIn
Visionary Design Marketing
Mike(at)VisionaryDM.com
Resources & People Mentioned
Darla is speaking at Podfest!
Check here for updates on the program: IFDA
Wingnut episode about Biophilic Design
Crestron Technology
Click & Co. Ad Agency
Century Furniture
Dr. Douglas Wood
BOOK: Year of Yes
BOOK: The Leadership Challenge
What is design harmony? Why should designers embrace it? 
Design harmony is simple—it’s about encompassing harmonious environments. It resonates with things in nature. Michelle points out that we are hamsters on a wheel that never get off the wheel anymore. We are surrounded by the stressors of life and work. Incorporating design harmony in the home and bringing the outdoors in can give you that breath of fresh air and a reprieve from the drudgery of office living. 
Design harmony encompasses many spokes—biophilic design, chromatherapy, home technology to execute a healthier environment, and controlling light and sound as well. Japanese have been embracing “Shinrin Yoku” or “Forest Bathing” for over 30 years. It’s the practice of immersing oneself in nature to feel better and be healthier. Now Canada, the UK, and even the US are embracing the practice. That is what design harmony seeks to do on a more intimate and personal scale in your own home.
Design harmony is about enhancing the human condition 
Mike pointed out residential and commercial designers aren’t just “providing aesthetics, they’re providing a healthier environment”. He cited studies that are showing that the right design can even lower your blood pressure. The medical industry is acknowledging something that designers haven’t embraced yet—that architects and designers have a greater ability to improve health than doctors. 
Mike and Michelle want to increase awareness of design harmony in the design field. That’s why the upcoming IFDA certification process for design harmony will be inclusive and affordable. Michelle notes that the end goal is to treat “design as a way to prevent illnesses by encouraging stress-free, happy and creative environments that allow us as humans to flourish”.
To hear all of the details about what the IFDA certification process will look like and how you can implement design harmony into your repertoire, listen to the whole episode! 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor 
www.curreyandcompany.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @Curreyco
On Instagram: @Curreyco
 
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Abandoning Perfection—The Trending Instagram Aesthetic

The days of the perfectly curated Instagram feed are dying out, and for good reason—people are tired of seeing perfection. It doesn’t exist in the real world. The airbrushed & color-coordinated photoshopped grid that influencers model is becoming a thing of the past. 
So what does that mean for designers? If you don’t have to strive for perfection—what do you shoot for? In this Monday marketing minisode, Darla and Natalie share their take on what your Instagram feed should look like. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:30] The Instagram grid aesthetics
[2:38] The death of the perfect grid
[6:12] 3 things you should be doing on Instagram
[8:21] Represent your brand
[11:38] Blooper Reel!
Authenticity is key
The perfect Instagram feed is fading out and being replaced by what some would term as “ugly” photos—unedited, monochromatic, or quickly-snapped. Our smartphones put the world at our fingertips. Within minutes of snapping a photo, we can upload it to social media. Gone are the days of digital photography, intensive editing, and striving for painstaking perfection. 
People aren’t looking for a sunbeam shining down from God on your Instagram feed. They don’t want to look at an airbrushed life that doesn’t exist in reality. What they DO want is authenticity. Darla and Natalie point out it’s why we are seeing the growth of micro-influencers. Large accounts are losing steam in lieu of REAL people sharing their everyday lives and businesses. 
So what should your Instagram aesthetic be?
It’s about finding balance. Obviously, you still want your feed to have nice photos—but they don’t have to be unobtainable. Our director of Social Media—Shana Heinricy—shared a few key things to think about:
First and foremost, you want to infuse yourself into every post.
Include things that you enjoy doing that will still look good on Instagram. Have you recently traveled somewhere? Is there a project you’re working on? Share them with a focused story that shows off your personality or what it’s like to work with you.
Worry less about the images and how they fit together in a grid and more about how each of those images represent YOU. 
You still want to reflect your brand, blend in with your style, and stay consistent across platforms. BUT focus on sharing nice photos that tell a story of who you or your brand are. They don’t need to be airbrushed perfection, just a reflection of your real authentic self. 
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com