Business of Home (BOH) and Dallas Market Center (DMC) hosted the second session of their Business Accelerator Series on September 15, kicking off Dallas Design Week. The event was part of a four-part program aimed at helping designers develop skills and strategies to build stronger businesses.
Focus on Client Relationships and Creative Partnerships
The fall session, titled “Building Trust & Creative Partnership”, explored the challenges designers face after securing a project. BOH editor-in-chief Kaitlin Petersen and guest speakers Wendy Estela, Morgan Farrow, Sean Low, and Hattie Sparks Collins led discussions on building respectful client relationships, crafting effective contracts, and guiding clients through the design process with confidence.
The event highlighted the strength of the Dallas design community, bringing together established and emerging talents. Notable attendees included designers from across the region, such as Olivia Biggs of Morgan Farrow Interiors and Carrie Collins-Barron of Carrie Barron Interiors. DMC Design Ambassadors, including Courtney and Teddie Garrigan of Coco & Dash, also participated.
Candid Conversations and Meaningful Connections
Ileana Saldivia, DMC’s director of interior design, praised the event’s candid and vulnerable discussions. She noted the “perfect flow of ideas” and the “refreshingly candid” speakers who shared personal lessons shaping their success. Saldivia highlighted the afternoon Q&A sessions, where designers engaged in intimate conversations, exchanged ideas, and built meaningful connections.
Petersen reflected on the series so far, noting the spring session focused on attracting ideal clients, while the fall session explored maintaining creative control and effective collaboration. She stressed the role of contracts in defining client relationships and tailoring processes to individual strengths.
Upcoming Session Focuses on Fee Structures and Project Management
The third session of the Business Accelerator Series, scheduled for spring 2027, will address fine-tuning fee structures and stress-free project management. Petersen expressed excitement about continuing the series and exploring these topics further.