Real Designer: Allison Ruda
The Real Designer Series talks to real-life designers about what it is like to run a design business. As you’ll see these ladies have all different backgrounds and experiences, but one thing they all have in common is that they have taken my course, The Golden Blueprint.
About Allison Ruda
My background for the last 8 years has been marketing, I worked in downtown Chicago as an Account Director for an advertising agency. I enjoyed my job and coworkers but I also always felt something was missing. When I lost my Mom in March of 2019, it changed my perspective on life. I knew I needed to do something that fulfilled my soul, and that's where interior design came in.
I've been drawn to design and decor ever since I was a young girl. I used to love helping my mom redecorate our home growing up. I also have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. So, I decided to get some formal interior design education and make some moves! I started my company, Allison Ruda Interior Design, in August of 2019 and am so thankful I did it's been so rewarding and I am so happy and proud of the company I have built.
For education, I enrolled in an online certification course called the Interior Design Institute. This schooling allowed me to learn and understand design principles, architectural history, design styles, space planning, lighting, color schemes, interior finishes, textiles, furnishings and working with trades. I also enrolled in The Golden Blueprint, as I wanted to ensure I have all the knowledge I could regarding setting up a proper interior design business. I learn something new every day!
What traits or talents have made you successful?
People skills! I think it's really important to remember this is a client service job. I think my innate ability to connect and communicate with others has been helpful. I've been told I am a very emphatic person, so I think that has served me well in trying to make sure I see things from my client's perspective.
I also try to be really positive and have fun. Life is too short to be negative. I think my clients appreciate the energy I bring to their projects.
Driven. Starting an interior design company is not an easy task, there is a lot involved and a lot to upkeep and to learn. That said, I am an organized person and set goals and dream big for myself. I think that has helped me to grow and challenge myself. I try to step out of my comfort zone at least once a day, which might not always happen, but it helps me to continue to elevate my skills and up my game.
What has been your biggest sacrifice in running your business?
My biggest sacrifice has been moving away from working with a team of people, to starting a company on my own. This is why I think it is so imperative to build up a team to support you in your business. Mentors, trades, family, and friends- they've all helped me in realizing my dream by supporting and believing in me.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned from running your business?
The biggest lesson is that you must believe in yourself, and you must have a CEO mindset, and run the show. You have to drive the process and be in charge.
What does success mean to you?
I read once that success is doing what you like, and liking how you do it. That resonates a lot with me. Success is freedom, joy, love, and bringing light to others. Success is knowing I made a positive impact.
When you stumble how do you pick yourself up?
BREATHE. I slow down, assess, and think about what can I learn from this? After every project, I complete there is a lesson (or two) in there somewhere. I also remind myself that I am blessed and lucky to have a career that I enjoy so much and that gives me the freedom to be my own boss. I remind myself that I am not saving lives and that I am always doing the best that I can.
Do you have a favorite quote, motto, mantra, affirmation?
Oh my gosh do I. I have so many. One that comes to mind from me from one of my favorite mentors, Marie Forleo is: "Everything is Figureoutable"
Also a big fan of "Progress Not Perfection"
From a personal perspective I like: "I am healthy, vibrant and well"
I could go on and on. Big fan of mantras and affirmations over here!
What drew you to interior design?
I love that being in a room can create a feeling. And I love beautiful things. I think it's so cool that you can design a space with the intention to better support someone and their dreams. That's really what I am all about.
How do you wish the design industry was different?
I wish there was more education about the value of Interior Designers. I think a lot of people don't understand all that goes into the business and work of a designer.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of building something from the ground up that I know in years to come will help support myself, my dreams, and my future family. I am proud of the relationships I've built in the industry in a short amount of time, and that I will continue to build onto. I'm proud, thankful and humbled by the clients that have trusted me with designing spaces within their homes. It means so much to me to be able to share my gift and know that I am impacting their home in a positive way.
How has your business changed since taking The Golden Blueprint?
The Golden Blueprint really inspired me to get clear on my processes. I love that! I plan to grow and having clear processes for how I run my business will serve me well now and in the long run.
Any sage advice or words of wisdom to fellow designers?
My advice would be to believe in yourself. Don't compare yourself to others. You have a special gift and ability that is uniquely yours, be proud and own it.
How do you charge/what is your pricing model?
I charge an hourly rate of $125. I also charge design fees on products I purchase, source and implement into my designs for my clients.
What is a typical project like in your business?
Typical projects include space planning, furnishing, painting, and styling. This year I plan to get into more full-service design that includes some remodeling aspects.
What is on the horizon for your business? What are your goals for the next year? What are you working on?
So many things! I'm adding a new service offering, Energy cleansing and decluttering, that I am really excited about. I am also more focused on Full-Service design in Chicago with a much smaller focus on EDesign. My goal is to work on beautiful brownstones within the Chicago neighborhoods of Bucktown, Wicker Park, and Lincoln Park. I am networking quite a bit and building up my team of trades and fellow experts. I am also maintaining mentorship & friendships with extremely talented designers that I have been blessed to meet. I am so excited for all that is to come! Thanks for taking the time to read a little bit about my story!
Thanks to Allison for sharing her story. You can contact Allison at contact@allisonrudainteriordesign.com. Photos courtesy of Allison Ruda.
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