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What is my best bet to become an interior decorator?
I want to eventually own a business for residential interior decorating and am wondering which of these two I should do:
1. Major in interior design
2. Major in business and learn interior decorating on the side
I would also just like some general tips on how I should go about my career path like what I should prioritize when I look for a college, if I should work at a design firm for a few years before trying to start a business, etc. Thanks!
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8 answers
Updated
Tooba’s Answer
Getting a GED
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Please answer it When can one get his GED
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You can generally get a GED (General Educational Development) certificate after passing a series of tests that assess your knowledge in subjects like math, language arts, science, and social
Both options you've mentioned have their merits, so let's break down the considerations for each:
Major in Interior Design:
This option will provide you with a strong foundation in the technical and creative aspects of interior design. You'll gain knowledge about space planning, color theory, materials, and design principles. This knowledge can be crucial for your career as an interior decorator, especially if you want to provide more comprehensive design services to your clients. Additionally, studying interior design might give you a network of contacts within the design industry.
Major in Business and Learn Interior Decorating on the Side:
Pursuing a business major will equip you with valuable skills in entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and finance. These skills are essential for running your own interior decorating business. Learning interior decorating on the side through courses, workshops, or self-study can provide you with practical skills to implement in your business.
General Tips for Your Career Path:
College Selection: When choosing a college, look for programs that align with your career goals. Research the curriculum, faculty, alumni success stories, and opportunities for internships or real-world projects.
Practical Experience: Regardless of your chosen path, gaining practical experience is vital. Consider internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering with design firms or interior decorators to learn from professionals and build a portfolio.
Networking: Building connections in the industry can be incredibly valuable. Attend design events, seminars, workshops, and join professional associations related to interior design and decoration.
Work at a Design Firm: Working at a design firm can provide hands-on experience, exposure to different design styles, and a better understanding of client interactions. It can be a great stepping stone before launching your own business.
Portfolio Building: As you learn and practice interior decorating, start building a portfolio showcasing your work. Potential clients will want to see examples of your design style and capabilities.
Licensing and Certification: Depending on your location, there may be licensing or certification requirements for interior designers or decorators. Research what's needed in your area and consider obtaining any necessary credentials.
Business Skills: Whether you major in business or not, developing strong business skills is crucial for running a successful interior decorating business. Consider taking courses or workshops in business management, marketing, and finance.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Combining both design and business knowledge can provide a well-rounded foundation for your dream of owning a residential interior decorating business.
Default (GPT-3.5)
User
Please answer it When can one get his GED
ChatGPT
You can generally get a GED (General Educational Development) certificate after passing a series of tests that assess your knowledge in subjects like math, language arts, science, and social
Both options you've mentioned have their merits, so let's break down the considerations for each:
Major in Interior Design:
This option will provide you with a strong foundation in the technical and creative aspects of interior design. You'll gain knowledge about space planning, color theory, materials, and design principles. This knowledge can be crucial for your career as an interior decorator, especially if you want to provide more comprehensive design services to your clients. Additionally, studying interior design might give you a network of contacts within the design industry.
Major in Business and Learn Interior Decorating on the Side:
Pursuing a business major will equip you with valuable skills in entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and finance. These skills are essential for running your own interior decorating business. Learning interior decorating on the side through courses, workshops, or self-study can provide you with practical skills to implement in your business.
General Tips for Your Career Path:
College Selection: When choosing a college, look for programs that align with your career goals. Research the curriculum, faculty, alumni success stories, and opportunities for internships or real-world projects.
Practical Experience: Regardless of your chosen path, gaining practical experience is vital. Consider internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering with design firms or interior decorators to learn from professionals and build a portfolio.
Networking: Building connections in the industry can be incredibly valuable. Attend design events, seminars, workshops, and join professional associations related to interior design and decoration.
Work at a Design Firm: Working at a design firm can provide hands-on experience, exposure to different design styles, and a better understanding of client interactions. It can be a great stepping stone before launching your own business.
Portfolio Building: As you learn and practice interior decorating, start building a portfolio showcasing your work. Potential clients will want to see examples of your design style and capabilities.
Licensing and Certification: Depending on your location, there may be licensing or certification requirements for interior designers or decorators. Research what's needed in your area and consider obtaining any necessary credentials.
Business Skills: Whether you major in business or not, developing strong business skills is crucial for running a successful interior decorating business. Consider taking courses or workshops in business management, marketing, and finance.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Combining both design and business knowledge can provide a well-rounded foundation for your dream of owning a residential interior decorating business.
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Evelyn,
It's great that you have such challenging goals!
In the firstplace, you should have strong background in Interior design since it will be the essence of your business. Then you can take various courses in business and improve your knowledge for it as well.
Wish you good luck and successful business decisions!
It's great that you have such challenging goals!
In the firstplace, you should have strong background in Interior design since it will be the essence of your business. Then you can take various courses in business and improve your knowledge for it as well.
Wish you good luck and successful business decisions!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Choosing between interior design and business as a major can indeed be a challenging decision. However, consider the possibility of a double major if you feel you're up to the task. Regardless of your choice, I would certainly endorse your decision. If you opt for one as your major, consider making the other your minor. The world of Interior Design offers a multitude of career paths once you start working in the field.
I used to work in the interior design industry and found myself on an unexpected journey. I spent several years in the lighting industry before branching out into plumbing and lighting. During this time, I developed a private line of builder products, which were privately labeled and stored in our warehouses. I also had the privilege of collaborating with Bob Timberlake, designing unique light fixtures for his homes alongside his design team, exclusively for Timberlake Design.
Life eventually led me away from interior design due to family circumstances. Today, I find myself thriving in the communications industry. So, while I began with a career in design, I now also have a flourishing business career.
Best of luck on your journey. It's sure to be an exhilarating ride, and both fields offer immense satisfaction and reward.
I used to work in the interior design industry and found myself on an unexpected journey. I spent several years in the lighting industry before branching out into plumbing and lighting. During this time, I developed a private line of builder products, which were privately labeled and stored in our warehouses. I also had the privilege of collaborating with Bob Timberlake, designing unique light fixtures for his homes alongside his design team, exclusively for Timberlake Design.
Life eventually led me away from interior design due to family circumstances. Today, I find myself thriving in the communications industry. So, while I began with a career in design, I now also have a flourishing business career.
Best of luck on your journey. It's sure to be an exhilarating ride, and both fields offer immense satisfaction and reward.
Updated
Charly’s Answer
Hi! Good morning! i don' know that answer because i'm not in that field, seek for orientation in that field and go for it.
Updated
Paula’s Answer
Hello,
Start looking on You-tube at what other designers are doing and saying. Which ones are you attracted too? What design elements do you like? Where did they come from? How did they find themselves in the industry? I love to see what other designers are doing and this is a great place to start. There are so many divisions within the design industry, it will be fun to see where you might land. Go to local design firms and volunteer or ask to interview the owner, so you can see what they do up close and personal. Over time, you will start to define yourself, network, and grow within the design community. Best of luck to you.
Paula Maxwell
Start looking on You-tube at what other designers are doing and saying. Which ones are you attracted too? What design elements do you like? Where did they come from? How did they find themselves in the industry? I love to see what other designers are doing and this is a great place to start. There are so many divisions within the design industry, it will be fun to see where you might land. Go to local design firms and volunteer or ask to interview the owner, so you can see what they do up close and personal. Over time, you will start to define yourself, network, and grow within the design community. Best of luck to you.
Paula Maxwell
Updated
Ohipeni-Ablode’s Answer
Choosing between majoring in interior design or business depends on your personal strengths and interests. Here's a balanced perspective from my side.
If you have a deep passion for interior decorating and want to excel in the creative aspects, majoring in interior design can provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and a strong network within the industry. It allows you to immerse yourself in the art and craft of decorating, making you an expert in the field. The downside might be that you'll need to develop your business acumen on the side.
On the other hand, majoring in business can equip you with the essential entrepreneurial and managerial skills required to run a successful interior decorating business. Learning decorating on the side is entirely feasible, but it may take longer to build up your design expertise. You'll need to invest more time and effort in gaining practical experience and honing your creative skills.
In either case, here are some general tips:
Choose the Right College: Look for a college that offers a strong program in your chosen major. Consider factors like faculty expertise, internship opportunities, and alumni networks.
Gain Practical Experience: Internships or part-time jobs in interior design or related fields can provide hands-on experience and help you build a portfolio.
Networking: Building relationships within the industry is crucial. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with mentors who can offer guidance and support.
Business Education: If you choose to major in interior design, consider taking some business courses as electives to build your business knowledge. If you major in business, take elective courses or workshops related to interior decorating.
Portfolio Development: Continuously work on your portfolio, showcasing your best projects and creative abilities.
Consider Working at a Design Firm: Starting your career at a design firm can provide valuable insights into how the industry operates and help you build a client base.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The world of interior decorating is ever-evolving. Stay updated with trends and technologies.
Plan Your Business: If you decide to start your own business, create a detailed business plan. Seek advice from mentors or business experts.
Remember, both paths can lead to success, but it's crucial to align your choice with your personal strengths and long-term goals. It's okay to be passionate and a little anxious about your career path; it's a big decision that will shape your future. Trust your instincts, work hard, and be open to adapting your plans as you gain experience and insights along the way. Good luck!
If you have a deep passion for interior decorating and want to excel in the creative aspects, majoring in interior design can provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and a strong network within the industry. It allows you to immerse yourself in the art and craft of decorating, making you an expert in the field. The downside might be that you'll need to develop your business acumen on the side.
On the other hand, majoring in business can equip you with the essential entrepreneurial and managerial skills required to run a successful interior decorating business. Learning decorating on the side is entirely feasible, but it may take longer to build up your design expertise. You'll need to invest more time and effort in gaining practical experience and honing your creative skills.
In either case, here are some general tips:
Choose the Right College: Look for a college that offers a strong program in your chosen major. Consider factors like faculty expertise, internship opportunities, and alumni networks.
Gain Practical Experience: Internships or part-time jobs in interior design or related fields can provide hands-on experience and help you build a portfolio.
Networking: Building relationships within the industry is crucial. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with mentors who can offer guidance and support.
Business Education: If you choose to major in interior design, consider taking some business courses as electives to build your business knowledge. If you major in business, take elective courses or workshops related to interior decorating.
Portfolio Development: Continuously work on your portfolio, showcasing your best projects and creative abilities.
Consider Working at a Design Firm: Starting your career at a design firm can provide valuable insights into how the industry operates and help you build a client base.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The world of interior decorating is ever-evolving. Stay updated with trends and technologies.
Plan Your Business: If you decide to start your own business, create a detailed business plan. Seek advice from mentors or business experts.
Remember, both paths can lead to success, but it's crucial to align your choice with your personal strengths and long-term goals. It's okay to be passionate and a little anxious about your career path; it's a big decision that will shape your future. Trust your instincts, work hard, and be open to adapting your plans as you gain experience and insights along the way. Good luck!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Evelyn !
How wonderful that you are so creative and it sounds like you have serious ambition, too ! I would be happy to give you some advice on this wonderful future career.
My advice to you is that you definitely will benefit from majoring in interior design. You will always be able to take business courses at your college while majoring in interior design and there may be business management instruction incorporated into your interior design courses. By concentrating on your main skill, you will learn everything and be prepared to work professionally and the degree will give you an edge. Not only that, at school, you will meet contacts in your main interest.
It's my advice to apply for some jobs at companies after graduating. This will help you get a feel for how things operate and routines and clients will get to know you. I had a friend who did this as a florist. He worked for a few years at a florist and than learned enough to open his own Floral Shop.
When looking for design schools, you are in a good location. Some good design schools near you are Cal State Long Beach, Cal Sate Fresno, my alma mater Cal State, Sacramento (not so close where you are) and Interior Designers Institute in Newport Beach. San Francisco State University is good, too. You would just have to figure our which location would be best for you. Explore their catalog of courses and requirements and pick one you like best.
I hope this has been of some help and I wish you all the best in your studies and future career in Interior Design !
How wonderful that you are so creative and it sounds like you have serious ambition, too ! I would be happy to give you some advice on this wonderful future career.
My advice to you is that you definitely will benefit from majoring in interior design. You will always be able to take business courses at your college while majoring in interior design and there may be business management instruction incorporated into your interior design courses. By concentrating on your main skill, you will learn everything and be prepared to work professionally and the degree will give you an edge. Not only that, at school, you will meet contacts in your main interest.
It's my advice to apply for some jobs at companies after graduating. This will help you get a feel for how things operate and routines and clients will get to know you. I had a friend who did this as a florist. He worked for a few years at a florist and than learned enough to open his own Floral Shop.
When looking for design schools, you are in a good location. Some good design schools near you are Cal State Long Beach, Cal Sate Fresno, my alma mater Cal State, Sacramento (not so close where you are) and Interior Designers Institute in Newport Beach. San Francisco State University is good, too. You would just have to figure our which location would be best for you. Explore their catalog of courses and requirements and pick one you like best.
I hope this has been of some help and I wish you all the best in your studies and future career in Interior Design !
Updated
Foram’s Answer
Success in interior decorating and owning a business requires a blend of design creativity, business savvy, and a deep understanding of client needs. Whichever path you choose, continue to develop your skills, build a strong portfolio, and seek opportunities to learn from professionals in both the design and business worlds.
Both options have their merits, and the decision largely depends on your personal strengths, goals, and circumstances.
Both options have their merits, and the decision largely depends on your personal strengths, goals, and circumstances.