Designer or Decorator?

Why Hire a Designer, and why it’s not the same as a Decorator

Because this is bigger than picking paint colors.

If you’ve ever stood in the middle of your living room with a paint swatch in one hand and a throw pillow in the other, wondering why nothing looks right together—it might be time to call in a pro. Let’s be honest: anyone can walk into a big-box store and pick out a couch. But creating a space that FEELS intentional, inviting, and truly “you”? That takes a bit more knowledge and finesse.  But here’s the thing: not all design pros are created equal.

Whether you're styling your forever home, getting your house market-ready, or prepping an Airbnb to stand out in a sea of sameness, a designer helps you make smart decisions. There’s a big difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator, and understanding that can save you money, time, and a whole lot of decision fatigue. 

Let’s Clear This Up:

Interior Designers

• Often have formal education, like a college degree, and training (like yours truly).

• Can reimagine your floor plan, work with contractors, and make structural suggestions (also yours truly).

• Focus on space planning, function, flow, and aesthetics (guess who?).

• Handle everything from remodels and Airbnb layouts to staging for resale (yep- still me).

Think: “Let’s move the laundry to the main floor, open up this wall, and make this whole space more functional and beautiful.” - Designers (Me)

Interior Decorators

• Work within the existing structure.

• Specialize in styling and surface-level updates—furniture, art, color palettes, lighting.

• Perfect for freshening up a room without construction.

Think: “Let’s add new curtains, swap the rug, and create a cozy, curated vibe.” - Decorator (not to toot my own horn... but, I can do this part too... so, on second thought, toot toot!)

So... Why Hire a Designer?

Because good design is more than pretty. It’s practical. It’s powerful. And when done right, it can completely transform the way you live. Here’s what a designer (like me) brings to the table:

Vision and Function Designers see the big picture and the tiny details. I walk into a space and immediately understand how it could work better—for you, your family, or your guests. Designers are trained to walk into a room and see it—what’s working, what’s not, and what it could be with the right touches. We catch awkward layouts, bad lighting, or furniture that’s fighting the space (and losing). A fresh set of expert eyes can completely change how you feel in your home.

Budget-Smart Decisions We Save You from Expensive Mistakes. Ever painted a room two or three times because the “perfect greige” turned lavender? Or bought a sectional that looked great online but swallowed your entire living room? A designer helps you avoid those costly errors with experience, planning tools, and insider knowledge. We help you spend your money once, not five times trying to “get it right.” No more repainting, repurchasing, or regretting.

Access to the Good Stuff

Designers often have access to trade-only resources, exclusive furnishings, and insider discounts you won’t find at your local store. That means unique pieces, better pricing, and a look that feels curated—not copied from a catalog. THIS is part of what allows us to make the space so personal for you.

Real Estate Expertise Selling your home? Is it Staged? It should be. Good design plays a huge role in selling faster—and often for more money. I offer staging with your existing furniture and a designer’s touch that creates jaw-dropping listing photos and open house magic. Buyers don’t just see a house. They feel at home. Maybe we need to sprinkle in a new accent piece here or there to show off your home’s full potential, I can do that too. I bring in a trained eye to highlight the best features of your home.

We Turn Short Term Rentals into Scroll-Stoppers If you’re in the Airbnb game, design is your first impression. I help hosts create photo-worthy, high-review-worthy spaces that make guests say “wow”—and book again. In the vacation rental world, design isn’t just a luxury—it’s marketing. I specialize in making short-term rentals cozy, clever, and 5-star photo ready. Because bookings don’t come from beige walls and generic art. I have my own short term rental and have received many reviews and messages regarding the attention to design and how comfortable my guests are in the beautiful and cozy space I created for them. 

Peace of Mind -We Make It Easy (and Fun!) A good designer listens, guides, and brings your vision to life—even if your “vision” is currently a Pinterest board and a half-finished living room. We bring the plan, the peace of mind, and sometimes even the paintbrush. From major remodels to small-space styling, you’ll have a clear plan, expert support, and zero guesswork. I handle the stress so you don’t have to. 

In short: If you're looking to rearrange some pillows, hire a decorator. If you're looking to rethink how your space works and feels—and increase its value—hire a designer. And yes, you can hire someone who does both. That’s where I come in. (I love pillows). 

Ready to fall in love with your home again? If you’re ready to finally love your space (or help someone else fall in love with it), hiring a designer isn’t just a splurge—it’s a smart move.\Let’s chat about your project. Book your initial consultation here Book Me!

You bring the dreams—I’ll develop the plan.

In the meantime, I’m always praying for you to be surrounded by Love and Comfort. 

• Lis