Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to pursue your dream of becoming an interior designer?
In this episode, you’ll meet Alison Geise, a former dietitian and law school grad who took the scenic route to interior design and built a thriving business doing what she loves. If you’re thinking about switching careers, Alison’s story will show you it’s possible.
Alison shares how her love for decorating turned into a full-time career, even after years in completely different fields. She talks about the steps she took to learn design, how she filled the gap in business knowledge, and why her unique life experience now sets her apart in the industry.
Whether you’re just starting or thinking of a fresh start, this episode is packed with helpful tips for making your move into design the smart way.
Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Tune in now, take notes, and explore how second chances can lead to stunning design careers.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Learn actionable tips on how to start your design career without a design degree
- Discover business and creative tips for designers so you can work smarter and stay creative
- Get inspired by a real career change and pursue your passion for design
About the Guest:
Alison Giese is the visionary founder and principal designer of Alison Giese Interiors, an esteemed, boutique interior design firm based in San Antonio, Texas.
She has cultivated a reputation for seamlessly blending sophisticated elements with unparalleled finishes, resulting in homes that are visually stunning and deeply reflective of her client’s distinct stories.
Alison’s journey into interior design is as unique as her creations. After a diverse career as a registered dietitian and law school graduate, a transformative move overseas ignited her passion for design, prompting her to pursue a certificate in interior decorating. Drawing inspiration from her travels and rich experiences, she creates interiors that embody a refined sense of place and character.
Connect with Alison Giese:
Website: Alison Giese Interiors
Instagram: @alison_giese_interiors
Check out these episode highlights
01:45 Alison’s Journey into Interior Design
Started with a passion for decorating but didn’t initially see it as a career
Pursued a science path with a BS in Nutrition and worked in medical sales for 5 years
Attended law school at husband’s suggestion
Discovered interior design while living in Brazil (around 2008)
Returned to the US in 2013 and enrolled in community college courses for interior decorating
05:26 Balancing Law School and Design Passion
How her law degree unexpectedly helps in her design business, especially with contracts
Her experience living in Brazil influenced her design aesthetic with tropical, colonial, and mid-century modern elements
07:22 Design Education and Business Learning Gaps
Frustration at the lack of business education in design programs
09:34 The Interior Design Business Launch Pad
Designed to help second-career designers or new designers with limited formal education or experience
Provides entry-level guidance on setting up a business
Offers practical advice for those starting their design careers
11:11 Alison’s Design Philosophy
Creates “timeless homes with soul” by incorporating pieces with character
Aims for at least 30% vintage/antique pieces in each project
Focuses on client needs and preferences rather than following trends
Helps clients look beyond social media algorithms by introducing books and older magazines
14:25 Diversifying Revenue Streams
Joining The Expert platform for virtual consultations
Launchpad serves as passive income and a way to support new designers
The importance of diversifying to mitigate feast-or-famine cycles in the industry
Building a robust team and systems to support her business and creative work
16:39 On Starting Her Design Career Solo
Couldn’t get hired at a design firm without CAD skills—forced to go solo
Built her portfolio by designing her own home and working with photographers to establish credibility
Professional photography helped build connections and get referrals
Overcame technical drawing challenges by outsourcing initially, then hiring skilled staff
19:28 Favorite Project: The Unicorn
A large new build in Virginia during the pandemic
Collaborated with a top architectural firm and ideal clients—creatively freeing and well-received
21:34 Balancing Creativity and Business
The challenges of balancing creative work with business responsibilities, including the need for systems and processes
Hiring a fractional operations team for backend systems and process support.
Setting aside dedicated time for creative work, often on weekends when there are fewer interruptions
25:49 Tools and Software for Business Efficiency
Uses ClickUp for project management
Employs Slack for team communication
Relies on Google Workspace as a digital filing cabinet
Works with virtual fractional operations team members from around the world
27:04 Advice to Aspiring Designers
Document your work with professional photography
Invest in a professional website to showcase your portfolio
Present yourself as a professional, not someone with a side gig, to attract serious clients
Be willing to share knowledge and experiences rather than gatekeeping the industry
Next Steps
Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Email me at [email protected] if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
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Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…