Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!  

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers your design questions with some special guests!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy had some suggestions for how not to design in 2024.

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy shares more trends for 2024!

Betsy's back and shares both life updates and design trends for the New Year!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your questions about making a space your own, working in a bedroom, outdoor rugs, and more!

In this throwback episode, Betsy answers your design questions about floors and more!

Betsy offers advice about decorating bare spaces and tips on starting a business!

From the 2021 episode summary:   Happy Thanksgiving! Are you supposed to be making cranberry sauce right now? Are you escaping into the bathroom, the closet, or the basement, just to catch your breath and get some alone time? I feel you!  I love having people over, and I love to cook (even though I’m not all that good at it!) but I’m an only child at heart and every now and again, I need my personal space.  So if you need some time to yourself to think about interior design, I have an episode for you! This episode, I answer questions about... [10:19] Making a bedroom feel balanced despite an unbalanced window placement (Carrie) [22:05] Updating a galley kitchen (Cindy) [23:39] Cabinetry [27:56] Crown molding, countertops, backsplash, and hardware [31:26] Lighting over the kitchen sink [31:49] Kitchen sink [32:22] The space between the kitchen and the open concept dining area To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

From last year's episode summary: This month is all about gratitude and I must say I've been feeling very grateful even though my house is in total chaos. Even though business is really busy. Even though I have a lot going on. I've definitely been finding a lot of peace living in the woods and a lot of space mentally, not just physically, but mentally, to have new feelings of appreciation move in on me, especially in this month of Thanksgiving and lots of reminders to be thankful.    I must say living in the country has been so freeing in a way. My mind is not so busy. I'm not always caught up in things and I can really take a second to step back and say, Wow, that's cool. Wow, this is nice, It's not just giving thanks for my surroundings. It's also about giving thanks and having space to remember the people who support me and of course, my family.    Today I want to specifically shout out to the people who make this podcast a reality. We are a very small team. But I must say they are integral to me being successful for the past seven years in this medium. I just show up, record this stuff and send it off. Sometimes with very little notice. Sometimes with less than perfect audio. And my team makes me sound so good and makes me look so good. It’s the behind the scenes actually putting this up and giving me the strategy by telling me what I need to do.    I wanted to show them the gratitude I truly feel every week when I record this podcast, but I don't always say it because saying it every week would get pretty redundant but I do want to let you guys know that this takes a team. It's not a one woman show even though you guys are hearing one woman. There's other brilliant women behind the scenes powering this little engine that could.   Without further ado, let me get to the questions in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [7:50] Do you have alternate ideas for kitchen flooring?  (Annette) [14:06] How do I select the right bedskirt? (Sue)   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

In this episode, I answer a question about dressing windows in a small space and painting staircases. If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here. I’m currently on maternity leave but will be popping in once a month to batch answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [01:35]  Dressing windows in a small open concept space (Mayan)  [10:04]  Painting staircase spindles (Benjamin)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

In this episode, I answer a question about redoing a kitchen in an apartment.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here. I’m currently on maternity leave but will be popping in once a month to batch answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [00:57] Redoing an apartment kitchen (Eleonore)   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

In this episode, I answer a question about where to find nursery decor on a budget.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here. I’m currently on maternity leave but will be popping in once a month to batch answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [02:18] Finding nursery decor on a budget (Jenny) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

In this episode, I answer questions about purchasing the 3 video bundle and styling an open concept floor plan.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here. I’m currently on maternity leave but will be popping in once a month to batch answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [03:33] How to purchase the 3 video bundle (Dawn) [05:31] Styling an open concept floor plan (Bobbyee) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

In this episode, I share a little behind the scenes of my current book writing process and answer a question about decorating a bedroom with romantic English country style.    If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here. I’m currently on maternity leave but will be popping in once a month to batch answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [01:01] A behind the scenes look into Betsy’s current book writing process [09:05] Decorating a bedroom (Megan)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

In this episode, I answer questions about decorating living rooms and making a multifunctional playroom, office, and guest space more functional.    If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [6:50] Addressing living room woes (Jess)  [17:56] Making a multifunctional playroom, office, and guest space more functional (Penny)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

In this episode, I answer questions about updating your space without painting and adding pizzazz to a dining/living room.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [02:08] Brightening up a space without painting it (Karen)  [09:34] Making a dining room and living room more visually appealing (Jade)  

In this episode, I share a quick personal update and my thoughts on the two worst designed interiors: doctors office and hotels.    If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [00:21] Personal updates from Betsy  [01:29] The worst designed interiors: doctors offices and hotels  [05:10] Ceiling painting woes (Illana)  [12:00] Decorating a tween bedroom (Jennifer)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I’m happy to announce that I’ve been feeling overall pretty good throughout my third trimester aside from lack of sleep in addition to making lots of headway on my book. I am so excited to finish it and get it into your hands early next year.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [0:22] 3rd trimester updates and write in woes [06:56] Kitchen remodel on a budget (Ranae) [13:52] Styling a condo without an inspiration piece (Kelly) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

  I’m currently working on a very fun project at a teen center and wanted to share my thoughts with you before we dive into the mailbag on how to avoid creating an unintentionally mismatched space.    If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [00:25] A current project Betsy’s working on at a teen center and what she’s learned along the way  [11:48] Designing a multi purpose living space on a budget (Kelsey)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

I’m preparing for my upcoming maternity leave and have been making headway on my book that I’ve talked about over the past few months.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [11:33] Refreshing a small bathroom (Penny)  [17:41]  Decorating a family room (Jen) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I’m 28 weeks pregnant in the middle of July and I am not thriving. One thing I am excited about is my upcoming baby sprinkle. We’re inviting some local friends and this has given me a newfound drive to finally get my house in order.  If you have questions for me, make sure to submit them here because soon I will be going on maternity leave and want to get enough episodes queued up to sustain the weekly release schedule while I’m gone.  This episode, we discuss… [5:33] Picking paint for a primary bedroom (Christina)  [16:55] Adding pops of pink to a room (Tanya) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

  I am going to a fancy party tomorrow for my husband’s coworker and feeling very nervous about it. I think I’d be a lot less nervous if it was a design project, to be honest but I will be there to support my husband in our Havana Nights themed outfits.    Want to learn more about what happens behind the scenes in my life - both personally and business wise? Head here to become a premium member and get tons of additional juicy content each month.  This episode, we discuss… [6:43] Bringing color into a space (Ashley)  [17:18] Replacing shutters on a bungalow (Mark) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I’m officially back from our trip to France to visit my French mom and say our goodbyes and enjoy our babymoon in Paris.  In today’s episode, we’re answering questions about finding high quality armchairs online, selecting a kitchen backsplash and renovating an apartment.  This episode, we discuss… [5:45] Finding high quality armchairs online (Cara)  [9:46] Choosing a kitchen backsplash (Cindy)  [18:44] Renovating an apartment (Denise)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Even though I’m still out of the office, I didn’t want to leave you hanging and skip releasing a new episode because I hate when my favorite podcasts take time off for the summer so I want to keep the content flowing for you.   Have a question? Make sure to submit to the mailbag so I can get your burning questions answered this summer.    This episode, we discuss… [10:46] Upgrading an office (Stacy)  [17:18] Creating a kid zone in the living room (Jessica) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I’m heading off to France for a few days to see my host mother who is terminally ill. It will be a sad trip but she is who sparked my love for interior design so I am forever grateful for meeting her.    In this episode, I share more about my experience with my host mom and what led me to finding my passion for interior design in addition to answering two of your burning questions.  This episode, we discuss… [1:51] What sparked Betsy’s love for interior design  [11:16] Lightening up a kitchen (Leslie)  [17:37] Refreshing a window and making it the focal point (Bailey)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign    

I am joined today by special guest, Angela Brown from the Ask a Housecleaner podcast.  This episode, we discuss… [1:07] About Angela Brown [3:36] Angela’s dads thoughts on her business [5:01] How Angela’s childhood experiences helped her shape her business into what it is today  [6:55] The biggest misconception about house cleaning [9:04] Why we clean before the cleaning lady comes [11:33] The importance of finding a system that works for you    [13:39] Weekly cleaning task examples  [16:38] How to get your family on board with your cleaning routine  [23:50] Frequently overlooked cleaning tasks  [28:32] Addressing cleaning blocks from our childhood  [30:35] Why Angela doesn’t believe in creating piles  [33:14] Overlooked cleaning routines for your pet   Connect with Angela Brown: Website: https://askahousecleaner.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8OUzZ0rKHOUZ19em4cEXyQ?sub_confirmation=1&via=tb  Cleaning Checklist: www.savvycleaner.com/worksheets   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I hope you are having a great kickoff to your summer, we only have two more weeks of school left here and my kids are clamoring to get the summer started.   When you're an entrepreneur, sometimes it doesn't always feel so cyclical. Sometimes you have to ride the waves of your children or your spouse who may have a more regular job. Last year, I felt like I was really waiting around because everything was kind of pending with our move so we didn’t really make any summer plans.    Now, we’re settled in our home but experienced another curveball with a baby on the way so once again, we’re not making any plans.  Without further ado, let’s dive into the mailbag.  This episode, we discuss… [3:09] Jazzing up a hallway (Andrea)  [10:04] Bathroom updates (Ranae)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Summer is quickly approaching and I am definitely not prepared. I’m honestly never prepared for the summer but this time I am blaming it on the fact that I am pregnant and the idea of planning a vacation in advance is not appealing.    We have two weeks at the end of summer where my kids aren’t in camp so I am ready to get out and explore the world before we have a newborn again but we may just be spending the summer exploring the local beaches and finally finishing our home.    Last episode I shared that I have been working on a really fun creative project that has been on my mind for years and I am excited to finally bring it to fruition. This project is a book of personal essays about my interior design career, my journey, the highs and lows as I have been in the industry for 18 years now. If there’s something you want to know more about, please send me an email at [email protected] with what you’re wanting to learn so I can make sure to include it in my book.    Without further ado, let’s dive into the mailbag.  This episode, we discuss… [8:58] Changing up the backsplash and counters in the kitchen (Mel)  [14:03] Decorating fireplace mantles (Kristin)  [20:46] Using wall decals is a child’s room (Sara) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I'm feeling really good. Most of my energy is back. I'm rarely feeling sick due to my pregnancy. And it is spring. And Connecticut is gorgeous. In the springtime. It's beautiful in the winter. Amazing in the fall. I haven't been here for a summer yet. But spring. Wow, there's so many flowers and so much to see.   I’ve also been working on a fun creative project that has been on my mind for years and I am excited to finally bring it to fruition. I'm working on a book of personal essays about my interior design career, my journey, the highs and lows as I have been in the industry for 18 years now. If there’s something you want to know more about, please send me an email at [email protected] with what you’re wanting to learn so I can make sure to include it in my book.    Without further ado, let’s dive into the mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [5:29] Window treatments for a 60’s home (Monica) [14:56] Putting the finishing touches on a living room (Stephanie)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I am joined today by special guest, Shannon Major, alumna of the Academy and Uploft Interior Design designer here to share her journey with you.     This episode, we discuss… [1:01] About Shannon Major  [1:22] How long it took Shannon to become an interior designer after joining the Academy [1:52] What inspired Shannon to join the Academy [2:45] What made Shannon look into interior design [3:53] Other career paths Shannon was exploring [4:35] Shannon’s experience with the Academy [7:27] What the process was like from student to interior designer [8:29] What Shannon’s day to day looks like as an interior designer [12:57] The most valuable thing Shannon learned in the Academy [16:45] Does Shannon still use the resources from the Academy? [19:39] Advice Shannon would give someone who is skeptical about pursuing a career in interior design [21:49] The positive changes Shannon has seen from taking the Academy [24:56] Skills Shannon was able to transfer from teaching to interior design Connect with Shannon:  Website: https://www.uploftinteriordesign.com/  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Spring is here and I am loving it! I wanted to thank you all for your well wishes on last week’s announcement. Your support means the world to me and I’m so grateful for you tuning in each week.  Without further ado, let’s dive into the mailbag.  This episode, we discuss… [1:54] Painting exterior windows (Libu)  [5:58] Updating a builder grade kitchen (Lisa)  [12:07] Determining your style word (Melissa)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

It feels like forever since it's just been you and me here on the podcast answering questions and I really appreciate your patience while I have been otherwise occupied.  So I did a few best of episodes, which as you know, if you're a regular listener is not really like me. I'm always on the airways talking to you guys and answering your questions. Well, I've been really sick. Luckily, it is nothing negative but I have big news for you. Listen in to learn more about Betsy’s big announcement and her answers to your burning questions.  This episode, we discuss… [1:16] Where Betsy has been  [2:39] How Betsy’s been handling the news [5:41] How to submit questions to be answered on the show [6:03] Addressing a negative review  [11:35] Finding the perfect rug for a nursery    Links:  Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

I am joined today by special guest, Stephanie Seferian of the Sustainable Minimalists podcast.    This episode, we discuss… [1:49] About Stephanie Seferian  [2:44] What it means to be sustainable [4:39] The importance of being sustainable [6:19] How to make the interior design industry more sustainable [12:38] The different types of sustainability certifications to know [15:43] What to avoid when trying to shop sustainably [20:57] Is it sustainable to purchase from estate sales/auctions? [28:39] How to make your space more cozy and tidy Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://mamaminimalist.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sustainable-minimalists/id1329830361  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Kelly and Anita from Decorating Tips and Tricks are the guests, and and answer your questions with Betsy! https://www.decoratingtipsandtricks.com/ 

I am joined today by a special guest, Ingrid Jansen of the Declutter Hub. This episode, we discuss… [2:15] About Ingrid and the Declutter Hub Podcast [4:06] How Ingrid got into decluttering [7:40] Why Betsy is more of a collector than an organizer [8:46] How Ingrid approaches a decluttering project [10:40] The eight steps of the Cycle of Success [20:06] How Ingrid enjoys the finale after a project is complete [22:05] Why it’s okay to ditch the guest room if needed [23:19] What to do when it comes to sentimental items [25:20] Dealing with sentimental items passed down from loved ones [29:05] How to Connect with Ingrid and Lesley   Connect with Ingrid:  Website Instagram Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions, with a special guest!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Change is in the air! We are putting our house on the market, so we have to pretend that nobody lives there - but I do get to style my house every day before I leave. The business is getting a total rebrand, so things are starting to look different there as well. As I’m going through all these changes, I’m getting asked some big questions. It’s been a long time since I’ve gone back to basics here on the podcast. People often ask me how I got started and why I decided to become an interior designer, so I thought I would share those answers here with you all.  This episode, I answer questions about... [3:34] Why I started Affordable Interior Design  [10:54] Why I really became an interior designer (hint: revenge!)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book

Last month, the Uploft Interior Design team and I all got together and it was amazing! We met in New York City and we had not all gotten together in person since before COVID. We had a photo shoot all day for five hours where we each got head shots, team shots, etc.    It was very emotionally and energetically taxing because I do not love having my picture taken. My team members are amazing and very self-managing, but you still feel a lot of responsibility to get the shots and that everyone's comfortable and has the drinks, snacks and jewelry that they want.   Then of course we had to bring props and flowers and plants, and we no longer have our storefront because I moved to Connecticut so one of my clients graciously allowed us to use his office space and it was a really fun day. At night we all went up to dinner and talked, and it's really nice to get to know everyone on a more personal level.    We just had a great conversation and it was so inspiring and invigorating and made me even more grateful for our amazing Uploft Interior Design team.   Speaking of our team, you guys know already, but we are hiring for an amazing sales representative and also an operations manager. These are both pretty high level positions and we are offering salary as well as bonus and benefits. So if you are an amazing salesperson or operations manager, then this might be a great fit.    You can send your resume to [email protected] and we'll reach out to you if you're a fit for the position with all the details. In this episode, we discuss:  [5:34] Designing a Living Room (Megan)  [13:22] Warming Up a Farmhouse Style (Hannah)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

I am so excited to share something with you. This will come as no surprise to some of you who've been listening for a while and know that every quarter I go to Chicago for a business workshop. I love interior design, but equally, I love entrepreneurship. I love becoming a better business owner. I love determining how I spend my days.   I love that the more I work on myself, the more I become a better human, more efficient, more compassionate, more plugged in, a better listener, that I'm able to use those skills, that sort of personal development to turn it into profit, right? Because the business you own or run is only as evolved and only as successful as you personally are.   That's really my biggest takeaway from my recent trip to Chicago, I realized that if I would've told Betsy, 25 year old Betsy who started her own business just as a hobby, was still, you know, dancing on the bar and waiting tables that she'd own her own business and she'd have a husband, she'd have the two kids, she'd have the dog, she'd have the house. Sometimes you just keep reaching and just keep striving and just keep thinking outside yourself versus saying, Hey, I'm at the top of the mountain.   I've arrived where I would want to have been at 25, and for all intents and purposes, I'm feeling really good where I am. I rarely stop and celebrate my wins. I rarely stop and look at my vantage point from the mountain and say, you know what? I'm already at the peak here, and any choices I make from here, while there's still a lot to do and there's a lot of logistics, and it's not easy running a business, any choices I make from here, I'm either choosing to move away from my dreams or towards them.   So how many of you are in that place where now you are not making a dream come true is on you? Maybe you're avoiding it, right? Maybe it's just inconvenient to change your life around.    My choice is preventing me from reaching goals versus me not being able to reach goals because of outside circumstances, which was so the case when I was 25. This was the case four years ago but now I'm in a different place and if I wanna realize things I've been thinking about, it's just about changing my schedule or saying this is a priority for me, I'm not gonna push it to the side anymore and that's kinda liberating.   So without further ado, let’s dive into the mailbag and start answering your questions.  In this episode we discuss… [9:33] Home Gym Design (Kara) [16:29] Eco Friendly Furniture (Kara)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

Happy balmy winter! It is so lovely here in Connecticut. We've only had the lightest dusting of snow. Everything has been so tranquil and lukewarm to mild to just barely cold. I understand that that might all lead back to climate change, which is not a good thing but it has been a helpful thing for my mental health as I'm acclimating to our new state.    A lot of you have been asking for updates on my space, but I honestly don’t have any desire to finish my house right now. I’ve been so busy with the business and the Academy that I just don’t have a creative bone in my body right now.    This episode, we discuss… [04:35] Choosing knobs for your dresser (Lisa)  [14:36] Modernizing a kitchen (Maria) 

In today’s episode, we’re back with part two of the 2023 interior design trends. In addition to the trends, I’m also sharing some of my current obsessions so press play to learn more about what’s trending this year.  This episode, we discuss… [02:02] Design Trend #4: Dark reds  [03:52] Design Trend #5: Velvet  [08:33] Design Trend #6: Decorated laundry rooms [12:32] Design Trend #7: Designing for entertainment  [15:03] Betsy’s Favorite Trends #1: Light fixtures with crystals  [17:51] Betsy’s Favorite Trends #2: Collections [22:11] Betsy’s Favorite Trends #3: Art picture hangers and art wires Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

In today’s episode we’re diving into our interior design trends for 2023. If you’ve been a podcast listener for a while, you would know that one of my favorite things to do to kick off the new year is to share some interior design trends with you. Not all trends are good and everybody loves to release a hot hot trend list for the new year but some of it's just noise so stay tuned for my unfiltered thoughts on these trends.  Before we get into the episode, I am announcing our giveaway winners so if I announce your name, please shoot me an email to [email protected] to claim your prize.  This episode, we discuss… [2:30] The winners of this month’s giveaway  [5:31] A behind the scenes look into Betsy’s own design process  [13:56] Design Trend #1: Rugs with fringe  [19:44] Design Trend #2: Mixing eras  [23:47] Design Trend #3: Two Tone Lighting  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

I just love January besides the cold but I'm spending lots of time thinking about the future and planning, getting motivated to actually make things happen. One of my favorite things to every quarter is go meet up with my business friends and take a workshop together at Strategic Coach and I get even more aligned and more excited about all the things I'm going to do. It's also a really nice break to stop and connect with other business owners who are running completely different businesses.   The exciting thing is a lot of times people surround themselves by say interior design organizations or interior design Facebook groups. I definitely belong to a ton of interior design Facebook groups and love to speak with other people in my industry but I get the freshest ideas by learning from entrepreneurs who are in totally different industries. I just get so inspired by learning from other journeys and by hearing what other people are experts in.    Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [6:15] Figuring out your design style (Marcie)  [14:57] How to properly mix metals (Jean)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Betsy has a very special announcement!

Happy New Year! Last year I hosted a live webinar about the three secrets to becoming an interior designer who gets paid and you guys loved it but not everyone was able to attend so I’m hosting it again on January 12th at 11 am EST. Sign up here.  I hope everyone had a wonderful New Years celebration. I'm excited for things to slow down a little bit. The first three months of the year tend to get me down since it’s so cold and there’s not much to look forward to besides spring. Hopefully this will give me a moment just to process and to take advantage of all the sales this month which is the second best time for sales in the home space. The next best time is July because of course they're liquidating spring/summer and getting ready for fall/winter but January is the time if you waited to purchase if you wanted to score a deal now is the time to shop.   Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [9:02] How to properly hang curtains in between three windows (Mary)  [18:29] How to style your living room (Heidi)    Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

Can you believe that the holidays are behind us? It's too bad because having something to look forward to like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, etc. Having those things to look forward to makes the cold weather a little more bearable. Now the cold, snow, coats and scarves they just feel like it's going to trudge along for so long.   The week between Christmas and New Year for me is a very special week because it's a time when I can spend time planning and visioning. Not only do I take stock of everything that happened before but I also plan for the year ahead.    This time last year I had no idea where we were moving and was moving out of my storefront, and was just in a bad place overall. While we are finally starting to get settled here in Connecticut, it hasn’t been without its challenges.    I hope you are finding a way to reflect and look forward. I hope that you're excited for the year to come and curious about what happened in the year behind us.    Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [1:55] 2022 in review [6:22] My newfound obsession with online auctions  [13:08] Where is the best place to find nice pillow inserts? (Heidi)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

I am excited to share with you that my home is actually coming along. I was so in the zone for the first month that we lived here and then things got real as I was choosing over 200 items from my new house and getting stuck and stumped and trying to figure out how much I really want to invest. And do I splurge on this and save on this? All the while prices have seriously gone up this year.    What is worth the splurge? Do I really splurge a lot on the formal dining table and chairs. And we're not even going to eat there all that often. Do I turn the formal dining room into like a game room that would get used a lot more often with a pool table and arcade games?    When we moved in, I made sure that my kids' bedrooms were set up so they would feel excited and happy and like they had a special place to go. I made sure that my husband's TV room was set up so he feel excited and happy and like you had a place to go. And then I made sure that my office was set up because I wanted a place where I could really escape, get a ton of work done, and be productive. Then life took over and my momentum stopped on the house and the only thing that could motivate me again was having people over so that’s what I did.    Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [6:49] Tips for styling your bookcase  [13:02]  Styling a mid-century modern bedroom (Carol) [19:07] Using plants in your interior (Gretchen)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

It is officially the holiday season. If you're watching on YouTube, you can see behind me this light dusting of snow over my Connecticut landscape. The previous homeowner warned me he said Betsy, you are going to love this home in every season but I know the other seasons won't be as magical as the winter time. And he was not wrong. Last night, these huge flakes came down and just lightly drifted over every little thing. It just turned into a winter wonderland.  In 2023, I will be dropping a brand new idea that I'm very excited about. So hopefully that'll keep you on the edge of your seats because the best ideas can come not when you're grinding in the day to day worried about payroll worried about clients worried about invoices. But when you finally step away, and are in a totally new different environment that triggers different synapses in your brain to be firing. And an idea that had been floating crystallized in my mind, and I'm so excited to share it with you.  Most things in my life have come from bravely following curiosity. Not being sure, not planning too much ahead. But being curious and curious enough to do the work to see. What's that, like, you know, even as an interior designer, I just liked watching it on TV. I was like, Well, why don't I go work with somebody on TV? Why don't you just write to this person? I didn't know what it was going to be like, I didn't know the hours involved or even really much about this person.  My advice to you is to bravely follow your curiosity wherever it leads, even if it leads to a new hobby, or just a new afternoon adventure, or a completely new vocation.  Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.  This episode, we discuss… [11:40] How do I create a color scheme when designing for people afraid of color? (Emily) [18:41] Help choosing the correct window treatments for my kitchen space (Maria)   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

Happy holidays. Great to be back with you. If you're watching on YouTube, you notice I have a little extra festivity, a little more bling. I'm wearing big ole earrings as I lean hard into the season's spirit! I am dazzling myself and my home for this fantastic moment in time, which basically takes place between Thanksgiving and the holiday season in December, when I just really lean hard to nesting, decorating, and making the home feel cozy and getting ready for, in my case, Christmas.    My other favorite thing about this time of year is the parties. Now I own my own business. So we have a virtual party during COVID. Because everybody that works for me is virtual, whether or not we're close together. And we rarely get a chance to meet together. So we will have a party in January. But I love going to other people's parties because I don't have to plan or host them. And it's just such a festive time.    Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [8:17] Help planning an open space with a diagonal wall (Kristen) [17:02] How do I warm up my space while keeping it simple? (Stacey)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

Happy holiday season. I hope you guys are enjoying this time of year staying warm, having cocoa maybe spiked with Bailey's, and joining the fire and joining friends' family. For me, it's like a whirlwind from mid November to the end of December. It all goes so quickly, like I'm just going down a slide at a playground, it just seems to speed up as the days go by.    I hope that you're enjoying it.I hope you're finding time to go to a tree lighting or a menorah lighting or just take a moment. I'm looking forward to taking a moment. I have a fireplace in my primary bedroom. And I am a fireplace junkie. And lighting that and curling up under the covers with my husband and watching bad TV while we giggle and eat chips and bed has just been the realization of a lifelong dream. And even though I've only done it one time this past weekend, it will be recreated.    It's just so nice when something that you've thought that you were going to love and wished you would have finally comes into your life and it's even better than you thought. I feel the same way about the jetted tub that's in my primary bedroom. i always dreamed never had. It's better than I ever could have imagined. There we go. I hope you're finding things to savor this holiday season.   Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [7:04] What color would you recommend I paint the cabinets? How about knobs? (Heidi) [14:27] Advice for how gutting our kitchen and making it functional (Chrissy)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

This month is all about gratitude and I must say I've been feeling very grateful even though my house is in total chaos. Even though business is really busy. Even though I have a lot going on. I've definitely been finding a lot of peace living in the woods and a lot of space mentally, not just physically, but mentally, to have new feelings of appreciation move in on me, especially in this month of Thanksgiving and lots of reminders to be thankful.    I must say living in the country has been so freeing in a way. My mind is not so busy. I'm not always caught up in things and I can really take a second to step back and say, Wow, that's cool. Wow, this is nice, It's not just giving thanks for my surroundings. It's also about giving thanks and having space to remember the people who support me and of course, my family.    Today I want to specifically shout out to the people who make this podcast a reality. We are a very small team. But I must say they are integral to me being successful for the past seven years in this medium. I just show up, record this stuff and send it off. Sometimes with very little notice. Sometimes with less than perfect audio. And my team makes me sound so good and makes me look so good. It’s the behind the scenes actually putting this up and giving me the strategy by telling me what I need to do.    I wanted to show them the gratitude I truly feel every week when I record this podcast, but I don't always say it because saying it every week would get pretty redundant but I do want to let you guys know that this takes a team. It's not a one woman show even though you guys are hearing one woman. There's other brilliant women behind the scenes powering this little engine that could.   Without further ado, let me get to the questions in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [7:50] Do you have alternate ideas for kitchen flooring?  (Annette) [14:06] How do I select the right bedskirt? (Sue)   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

I have a confession to make. I've done well, I've done a bad thing. I've done something I told you guys never to do. Not only did I do it once, I did it twice. Let me share the confession with you right here. I have this beautiful stained glass in my dining room. I really love stained glass. It's so beautiful. When I saw it in the listing when I saw it in person, it was just perfect. It's very colorful. And you can see the stained glass all the way from when you walk in the house. So I based the entire color palette of the house off of this stained glass. It has Navy, it has gold, it has emerald green, it has some orange. It's very colorful, very lively. And it changes based on the light in the room. But it does get a lot of afternoon sun and the colors totally change And I based all the colors, all the paint everything off of this palette, it is the inspiration piece for the entire downstairs area. I wanted to make a bold statement. As you know, I did my rainbow fruit flavors and did a lot of bold colors on the wall paint more than I would normally say as appropriate. But it's my space. And I can break my rules if I want to. And I wanted to, and in the dining room I wanted to make a brilliant deep purple. I found a couple of colors that I think are also pretty good, but very different. But still in that deep saturated plum purple family. I go to the hardware store and I buy my samples because I'm a very good girl, especially with bold colors that I'm not familiar with.  I buy the samples, I put them on the wall, I find one that I really like ,and I move forward with that color. Now I've told you guys many times purple is dangerous. Purple is a horrible color to work with. The other reason is because it's very hard to match purples. Some purples have more blue, and are more like a Periwinkle. Some purples have more red and are more like a deep plum, even magenta. And there's this whole range in between and it's just a nightmareville. When nighttime came and the doors the stained glass did not match this paint color at all.  In fact, I really hated it.  This is the only room in my personal life that I've ever had to repaint. I told the painters guys you did an amazing job. Luckily, it's just the first coat for the second coat. I want you to use this color instead. That will work fine as a base coat. I mean they were only one step away on the chart. But to me it felt like worlds away right? The guys were very obliging. I said I will pay for the discarded cans. This is on me. This was my bad. They change the color with the second coat. And during the day it looks fabulous. During the day I just love it. When nighttime came. I look at that room. I hate it. It doesn't go at all. Purple is such a horrible color. But I'm not going to ask these poor guys to paint it again. Then my daughter wanted a new vibe for her room and she picked purple. And I was like, yes, let's do the purple. I let her choose the one and It came out really beautifully. But when I tried to buy drapes and a duvet, we couldn’t find the perfect match. And it's again just that subtlety there is no room for error with purple. Anyway, that's my purple shame. I don't know if you can resonate with that. But do learn from my mistakes as a professional designer of two decades, I should have known to not paint rooms purple, use purple in 10% doses throughout your space and no more. No matter how much you love purple.  Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [20:27] How do I transform our "Frankenstein" vents (kitchen range hood) into something livable? (Sonia) [25:21] Where to place the storage cabinets/bench to help with the functionality and aesthetics? What about foam mats? (Stephanie)    Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Happy birthday to me. Happy birthday dear Betsy. Happy birthday to me. Guys, you know that I don't always take a moment to stop to celebrate. Not podcasting, anniversaries, not business inception in anniversaries, not lots of different things, including this year, my anniversary just flew by with all the other stuff going on. We did go to dinner, but we need something more epic after 12 years, do you agree? And usually, I let my birthday whimper and simper right by. I'm not opposed to birthdays. I have nothing against birthdays. It's just that I'm often swamped. I try to do something, but it can be a little with all my other obligations.  But not this year. This year, I am making it happen for myself. I am doing fun things! My favorite singer, Mike Doughty from the band Soul Coughing, which I was just obsessed with in college, is coming to Connecticut and playing a free show. Are you kidding me right now? I am a huge fan.  So my friends said, "Betsy, what are we doing for your birthday?" I said we are going to see Mike Doughty in concert for free at seven o'clock, which I sincerely appreciate as a person in my 40s! Then I said, we're going to be in Connecticut. You guys are going to come to this free show with me, and why don't we head back to she-shed, my little cottage, and we'll have a girl's night. We'll get takeout, light the wood-burning stove, and we will have fun. We will crack open the hot tub, which I have not opened for the three months I have been here. I'm very excited.  Are you like me, where I still need to fully unpack this little cottage. I have been so busy, so preoccupied. Also, the priority is the main house. Who cares about my office, my space? My kids are living in chaos. My husband's complaining daily that we only have one couch and one TV and what's going on, where's all the furniture, and what's happening. And I prioritize my time over there and have yet to prioritize my time here. I will get my act together if I plan an event where somebody is coming over, and then I will clean up. So that's what I'm gonna do.  Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [7:38] What’s the best shaped coffee table for my space? (Kristy) [13:39] What’s the best way to make a small beach studio feel more cozy, yet still spacious?  (Kara)  [20:41] Thank you for sharing your real life (Melissa) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

Hello, it is great to be back with you. I am in a remarkably chipper mood. And for one, it's because it's like 70 degrees outside, and it's November. And that thrills me beyond belief. It's like I get this extended summer spring. I don't know what, but I'm here for it because I'm still not even wearing a coat. So that's been delightfully energizing and has done wonders for my mood and everything.  But I am also riding high because so many of you joined me for today's webinar. So I had a webinar on the three secrets to becoming an interior designer who gets paid. And it was so exciting for me that it was my first webinar. I've attended webinars and seen other people give them, but I have never personally given a webinar, and I was a little nervous. I was planning for it, thinking about it, and asking my friends who regularly run webinars and are total pros. The other significant reason is that I had so much fun. I got to meet you from around the world. There are people from Ireland, Scotland, Australia, and the United States. We talked about what it looks like to have a passion for interior design and how you get to money because there are so many circuitous paths or people need that clear vision. And there are only so many visions that you really can have. I received great feedback from the event, and I had a blast! As far as the home goes, It's been three months in my new house, and it's still chaotic. Because out here in Connecticut, I have a different handyman team. When I was in Westchester, my handyman lived less than a mile away and would come over at the drop of a hat. Also, I could get anything in two weeks because supply chain issues were not a thing. And it's just overwhelming. It feels like it will never end, and I know it will end, but I'm not too fond of a drawn-out timeline. It's already been three months, and I can't keep living like this.  But I'm also tired of complaining about it to you, my podcast listeners. Hopefully, it's made you feel less alone if you're moving.  I'll stop dwelling on the negativity, mainly because the weather's so lovely. Thank you for being so supportive! Now, I will support you by answering questions in the mailbag.  This episode, we discuss… [10:58] Help with Sofa placement to make use of space in open concept style (Christina) [14:59] What are your thoughts on affordable beaded bedroom chandeliers? (Sue)  [19:47] What color cocktail table should I buy, help me figure out what’s missing in my space (Elizabeth)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Things are a little different because I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Toronto. Very exciting. What a beautiful town. What a fun time. Lots going on, I go to either Toronto or Chicago for my business class. And so most of the time I spent in the hotel right outside the airport learning and on long drives listening to audiobooks was very exciting. But I'm so glad to be back with you. My WiFi is still spotty in the cottage. So you'll see I'm phoning in, if you're watching on YouTube, I'm recording here in my husband's office, which is filled with boxes, DVDs, and bare walls. It's an evolution guys, it's been a more painful evolution than I'd hoped. But we are getting there slowly. But surely, I hope that you're doing well. I hope that you're evolving, changing for the better, whatever that looks like for you. Alright guys, well, a lot of questions have been coming in, like I shared with you. Everybody, including my interior design firm, gets the itch to design right about now. This is our busy season. October is always a booming month for us, where people really get into gear and want to take their place to the next level. And from the looks of my mailbag. You guys are feeling the exact same way.  So let me optimize our time together and dig in and answer your questions.  This episode, we discuss… [4:22] Are there other safety concerns when designing a nursery?  (Emily) [13:39] Where do I place the chair of my sectional? Part up against the wall, or use that wall for an end table? (Deborah)  [16:00] How do I style my Large Open Kitchen Space (Kay)    Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/  Webinar: https:/www.affordableinteriordesign.com/webinar

Hello, everybody. Happy fall. I hope you're doing well. I hope you're staying warm. I'm not this cottage cold, Connecticut is cold, it is fall and I have not stopped shivering since the temperature dropped below 50. This is my new life. This cottage takes forever to warm up. So it does have an electric heater. It is like a system, not just a heater, which is nice, but it takes forever. And I do have a wood burning stove that is supposed to heat up this space, which is one log. All the logs are soaking wet from the day of rain we've been getting. And I have no confidence that I know how to work a wood burning stove. I'm going to figure it out. I   By golly, I'm going to figure this out. But until then I'm just going to shiver, wear my daughter's hoodie and muddle through. I hope you guys are surviving and thriving. Hope you are a little bit warmer than me. I hope you're settled and not living out of boxes. We are just at month two living in this house. We are still in boxes, I still can't find my toothbrush, I still can't find several lampshades, I still can't find a number of things that feel very important. I'm just lucky if I can take a shower in the morning and find a clean towel. That's how things are going.  Okay, let's move on to more exciting news. The mailbag is full, it is brimming. I am so excited to tackle these questions. And I'm going to do so in a sort of a quick manner today. That way I can get to the biggest volume of questions in the shortest span of time.  This episode, we discuss… [10:24] What do you think of rattan lamp shades? Are they ever appropriate, or are they too dark? (Emily) [12:58] Any tips for adding things to a kitchen to make it functional? What are the best brands of appliances to buy? How do I incorporate color into the kitchen without making it that I have to redo in a few years? What is the best quality furniture? (Sophia)  Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/  Webinar: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast

I have very exciting news to report. In fact, I am more optimistic than I have been since we moved into this place because the squirrels have been humanely eradicated. Yes, that's right. I am pretty confident all squirrels are gone. Now it is mating season and squirrels can have 27 to 30 babies. So we can't be totally sure that the last ones are out. But we're fairly confident and we have a video camera on surveillance watching for squirrels.    I feel very excited and very optimistic. In fact, if you're watching on YouTube, that is why I am in a robe. I don't actually own a robe myself. I borrowed my son's Harry Potter robe. I think this is the house of Gryffindor. I'm not sure I haven't read the books myself. But one of the charms of this cottage besides the squirrel infestation is that there is a really delectable hot tub right upside. I have yet to use it because I've been so preoccupied with everything going on. But in celebration of my squirrel eradication, I will be in this hot tub mere moments after this broadcast.    Now that I've got some things under control. I hope you've got things under control. I hope you're feeling good. I hope you have an opportunity to relax this week. One of the things I love to do to relax besides soaking in a hot tub is answering your questions. Do you have any questions for me? Sure. It could be about squirrels, it could be about hot tubs. Even though I don't know much about hot tubs. I haven't been in it yet. But asking me design questions is where you'll really tap into my expertise.    Without further ado, let me get to the questions that are already in my mailbag.    This episode, we discuss… [4:45] How to choose your wall decor, how many photos are too many? (Kelsey) [13:39] How do I warm up the main floor and make it feel more cozy and bright? (Rebecca)  [19:33] Help solving the New York City Curtains and Radiators situation (Rebecca)    Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/   

There's so much going on guys one of these days. But I know everything's gonna be fine. Everything's getting back to normal. I can see things improving week by week, slowly but surely.    But honestly I'm hanging on by a thread and I have such compassion. I mean, I've always had empathy for my clients, moving into a new space living with zillions of boxes feeling uncomfortable, waiting for a couch for two months, dealing with supply chain delays, but I have empathy on a whole new level.   Now that I am going through it. I am hanging on by a thread and I feel your pain. So if you're moving, if you've just moved, if your life is in chaos, if you can't remember where you put your earrings either? This is the reality of my life. And so it is so fun to have an escape, my escape being talking to you and answering your design questions.    In the meantime, you have been sending me all kinds of amazing questions and I am excited to hop into the mailbag today.  This episode, we discuss… [5:40] Window treatments for 1962 Mid Century Home (Tim) [14:11] Choosing living room and dining room rugs that complement each other (Kristen)  Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Happy fall! It’s officially fall in Connecticut and I feel like I’m living in a long episode of Gilmore Girls. We have been doing all of the fun fall activities the past few weekends and it’s been a lot of fun and very charming which is making dealing with all the renovation issues a little easier. I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel, even if it’s currently a very dim light.    In the meantime, you have been sending me all kinds of amazing questions and I am excited to hop into the mailbag today.    This episode, we discuss… [5:59] What window treatments to select for a 100+ year old home (Kalan) [8:17] How to add picture lights to a gallery wall (Jasmine)  [15:37] Styling blue cabinets in the kitchen  (Hannah)  Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Betsy talks about kitchen designs, and gives another update about her recent move!

It’s so good to be back with you again this week. A lot has been going on since the move to Connecticut on August 17th. We’ve been trying to manage our sanity while helping our kids make a smooth and healthy transition. There are currently so many moving parts with the house, and the cottage outback, where I will be working. We have discovered critters in the house and the cottage, there is only wifi in the cottage, and the list goes on.    So even though I’m not feeling my best, sleeping my best, or living my best life right now, I am happy to be with you today to answer your mailbag questions because that keeps me sustained through the trials and tribulations of this whole process.  This episode, we discuss… [7:58] Using decorative curtain hardware in a primary bedroom (Marissa) [17:08] Styling a media cabinet for more functionality and style (Dion) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/

I am joined again by a very special and meaningful guest, Thom Filicia. Not only is he the top designer and founder of Thom Filicia Incorporated, but he is the entire reason I am a designer today. So let’s dive into part two of my conversation with him on the evolution of design. If you have missed last week’s episode on Thom’s background, how his love of interior design began, and the most difficult part about being a new designer for him, then you will want to go back to part one of this conversation.  This episode, we discuss… [1:41] What it means to be an innovator in the design space right now [9:04] Evolution of design to include more everyday types of people [12:26] What Thom is most excited about in design right now [14:13] Stepping into the client role as a designer when designing for yourself   Connect with Thom: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m excited to be with you this week as I am joined by a very special and meaningful guest, Thom Filicia. He is known for his role as an expert designer on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy TV show and is the top designer and founder of Thom Filicia Incorporated. He is the entire reason I am a designer today. Let’s take a look at his take on internships in the design space, what led him to become an interior designer, and one of the most discouraging parts of being a new designer. This episode, we discuss… [3:30] Thom’s beliefs about the power of internships in the design space [6:46] A glimpse into Thom’s origin story as a designer [14:02] How his love of architecture turned into a passion for interior design [23:43] The most difficult part about being a new designer Connect with Thom: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This is one of the last recordings in my current house because we are moving to the new Connecticut house very soon. To keep with my relationship analogy - I am breaking up with what I thought was my forever love and am about to get married to somebody amazing in Connecticut.  I’m starting to really appreciate all the things I took for granted about this current home, like the panoramic view of the Hudson Valley right in front of me as I record podcasts. I am very excited to get to our new home in Connecticut, but I am definitely going to miss this place. So to distract myself from the sadness, I am digging into the mailbag to answer some of your questions. This episode, we discuss… [2:50] Whole house renovation from standard Spanish-style to clean and hygge (Dina) [16:35] Decorating a bedroom with an odd door swing  (Alison) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

I am joined today by special guest Courtney Clark, an Uploft Interior Design Academy student. She has been on the podcast before to share her personal story, from being interested in interior design to enrolling in the academy and now working for herself and taking on clients. Since I get asked so much by prospective students about what an actual coaching session entails, Courtney has graciously agreed to help me give you a snapshot of what these look like inside the Uploft Interior Design Academy for our students. This episode, we discuss… [3:54] Bringing the suitable artwork into an open floor plan to create a more intimate feel [13:00] Guidelines for incorporating molding into an open floor plan design [20:06] The most significant challenges being faced as a new business owner [28:06] Following up with clients after the initial presentation to finalize selections [33:27] Supply chain issues and how to articulate that to clients [38:14] Letting go of the need for approval and finding fulfillment in your interior design path Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign   Uploft Interior Design Academy: https://www.uploftinteriordesignacademy.com/ 

Two special guests that you may already know are joining me today, Kelly Wilkniss and Anita Joyce, from Decorating Tips and Tricks Podcast. I love their podcast, and the information they share is so harmonious with what I share with you. With this being such a natural connection, it was a no-brainer for me to have them on the show to share about themselves and give some of their favorite tips and tricks for decorating. This episode, we discuss… [2:07] Kelly and Anita share their lives before design + how they go into interior design [6:16] Creating a more personal connection with podcasting + how they co-host together [12:44] Using photographs to capture a different view and the evolution of a space [14:59] The three crucial lighting sources you need for each room [18:24] Artwork sizing for the focal point of a room [22:53] Leave room for negative space instead of cluttering things up [25:38] Limiting your color palette to just a few cohesive colors [27:06] Create a sense of flow from room to room [32:17] Avoid the trendy designs you see all over the place online [37:28] Finding your style and aiming for a collected look that resonates with you Connect with Kelly + Anita: Decorating Tips and Tricks Podcast + Website Kelly’s Website Kelly’s Instagram Kelly’s Youtube Channel Anita’s Website Anita’s Instagram Anita’s Facebook Anita’s Pinterest   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m joined again for the third week by special guest Paulina DuPain, a fellow designer at Affordable Interior Design by Uploft. She has an extensive background in the interior design industry before coming to the firm seven years ago. She is the perfect person to help answer all of your business questions. If you are wondering who Paulina is, check out Part 1 of this series to learn more about her background.    Last week, we talked about creating an apartment space that not only felt cohesive but distinct as well, item sourcing issues, how to deal with upset clients because of those issues, and so much more. Be sure to listen to parts 1 and 2 before diving into this week’s episode with more questions from the mailbag about the business side of interior design.   This episode, we discuss… [2:10] Sticking to a client’s budget when designing (Lisa) [6:01] Having bad experiences with sourcing companies and ways to avoid that (Francis)  [9:00] How to become an interior designer and find confidence (Virginia) [17:42] Finding more clients to consistently have something to work on (Susie) [24:30] Learning to design in a style outside of your comfort zone (Renee) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m joined again this week by special guest Paulina DuPain, who is a designer at Affordable Interior Design by Uploft. She has been on previous podcast episodes before, and I knew her insight on the business side of interior design would help answer some more of your questions this week for part 2 of this series on the Business of Interior Design.   Last week, we talked about the rewards and challenges of the interior design industry, setting boundaries with clients, and so much more. Be sure to listen to that episode before diving into this week’s episode with more questions from the mailbag about the business side of interior design.   This episode, we discuss… [2:15] Creating an apartment space that feels distinct yet cohesive (Francis) [7:01] How to deal with clients that are upset with item sourcing issues (Chan) [12:07] Pushing the paint color boundary with clients and what colors to stay away from (Jim) [19:51] Day-to-day life as an interior designer and typical schedule (Rachel) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

This week I’m joined by special guest Paulina DuPain, who has been on previous episodes of the podcast.  She has been in several different aspects of interior design in her career of over 10 years, so I thought she would be the perfect person to answer some of your questions with me about the business side of interior design. This episode, we discuss… [2:03] Paulina’s background in interior design [3:50] The most challenging and rewarding parts of the interior design industry (Millicent) [12:31] Working on boundaries and setting them with clients (Wendy) [16:00] Getting your clients on board with your vision (Sarilou) [19:20] Advice for those who dream of pursuing interior design (Pam) Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

It’s officially official now - I’m engaged, and the contract has been signed on the beautiful Connecticut house with 15 acres! My husband has now finally seen it and thinks that it is spectacular. The place definitely ticks all the boxes, but now I’m in this phase where I have cold feet. Did we make the right decision, or am I suffering from a typical case of ‘house fomo’? I’m trying to squash those thoughts, especially by getting rid of all communication with real estate agents in both areas we were looking to buy and getting rid of notifications about new listings online. I am avoiding buyer's remorse at all costs, and things are starting to get exciting now!   However, I am a bit nervous because we closed on our current house on June 25th and move into our new home on August 17th. That leaves us with a considerable gap, and I can solve that problem, except there is one bigger issue. I have fully designed the new space, taken measurements, and have everything listed out, but nowhere to ship items. I’m in limbo between both spaces for now, so let’s jump into answering some of our questions from the mailbag. This episode, I answer questions about… [6:39] Narrowing down a new style for a hallway (Nicola)  [17:27] Recent move into a rental home space that needs more style (Erin) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I’m joined by special guest, Andy Ciccone, host of The Poor Prole’s Almanac podcast.  He has lots of interesting ideas, and I’m so excited to have him share his knowledge and philosophy about land. This episode, we discuss… [1:48] Andy’s background and his podcast [4:07] Culture and identity [10:05] Land stewardship [16:34] Native species vs. invasive species [20:35] Reading the landscape [23:08] Historical homes [25:06] Representing your house or your land [27:56] Learning about your soil [31:25] Forest bathing [33:05] An urban cage vs. a native habitat [36:07] Learning from your community Connect with Andy: Website Instagram   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

  I’m officially engaged to the lovely house from Connecticut with 15 acres! The caveat is that we don’t have a date yet, so I don’t know when to break up with my current partner - or house, that is; even though we've sold the house, things are still up in the air for now.    The beautiful dream house is everything I could have asked for. I can't believe we got it after looking for a year and a half and losing no less than six places with astronomical bids. Again, I can't believe we've got a home, but there's a catch. We made the offer with no contingencies and no inspection. After having the inspector show up as my cousin for my second visit to the house, he said the house looked phenomenal. So the offer has been accepted, and we have signed the paperwork, but we are waiting for the current homeowners to sign the contract. What an exhausting process this has been. In the meantime, let’s dive into some of your fabulous questions from the mailbag before all the noises of my neighbors’ leafblower, and jackhammer begin again! This episode, I answer questions about… [5:42] New layout for a living room that was once a dining room (Alicia)  [18:15] Flooring decisions for a kitchen and dining room (Ranae)  To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Thank you, everyone, for bearing with me as I am still getting over Covid after having it three weeks ago. This stuffy and congested feeling has me struggling as I’m not back to normal yet. The brain fog is so real. Others have had it worse, so I’m grateful for being able to taste and smell. That would be a problem for me because I am a food lover! Bear with me as I muddle through the remaining side effects. Let’s dig right into the mailbag because I have had so many delicious questions come through.  This episode, I answer questions about… [2:45] Storage options for a small master bathroom (Ranae)  [14:04] “Feeling” words for Scandinavian style and how to apply both together (Katherine)  To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

If you have been following along on my house hunting journey, then you know what I mean when I say that I have a new online boyfriend and just had my first date. That’s a house, of course. It’s this beautiful yellow house with teal shutters and a cottage in the backyard in the Connecticut area. I’m obsessed! I wasn’t allowed to go see this house for two weeks, but I have finally been able to take a look inside. We just got over covid, and with it being Memorial Day weekend, I decided to pack up the kids to hike a nature trail right by the beautiful yellow house to take a peek at it. My boyfriend looked amazing, but the catch is that we couldn’t look at one room inside the house. No one is allowed to look until it is sold. Who knows what I’m getting into with this whole online dating thing, but I’m planning to put an offer in on it tomorrow even though my husband hasn’t seen it yet. That’s just how I roll! To help keep my mind off of my new boyfriend, let’s answer some of the questions you’ve sent me in the mailbag.   This episode, I answer questions about… [8:20] Finishing a basement with shelving or decorative paneling (Brenda)  [14:49] Creating a cozy open concept space to piece everything together (Justine)  To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

As you know, the mailbag is running a bit low so as I wait for it to be refilled, I still wanted to make sure to get out an episode for you. This episode is going to be a bit of a design TMI. I am currently working on a handful of projects so I’m going to share with you what I’m working on wit clients and challenges I’m having along the way.  If you’re watching this on YouTube, you may notice that I’m looking down a little bit and that’s because I’m referencing my client questionnaires to make sure that I’m remembering things correctly.  This episode, we dive into: [3:12] Restaining floors in a large apartment  [12:10] Completely overhauling a fixer upper  [16:40] Designing an eat in kitchen nook  To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

  You might be wondering why my episodes have been a little all over the place this month. That’s because of two reasons. One, after this episode, I am officially out of questions as the mailbag is now empty so make sure to go submit your burning questions over at affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast. The second reason that my episodes haven’t been consistent is because well, life has been pretty chaotic lately. We have been house hunting like crazy and coming up empty. Both my daughter and husband also caught COVID within the last two weeks so my son and I booked a hotel room for a week because with my line of work, I cannot afford to get sick. Both of them recovered and were feeling great then we had a death in the family and my husband flew to LA to attend the funeral. Once in LA, he started feeling sick again and turns out COVID struck again. I appreciate you sticking with me while I release episodes on an irregular schedule.    This episode, I answer questions about… [6:07] Choosing the best finishes for kitchen cabinets (Bobbyee)  [14:11] Sprucing up a bar area (Michelle)  [21:33] Finding your design style (Heather)  To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m still going through real estate options online, and it’s starting to remind me of online dating. As I scroll through pictures, I’m trying to imagine myself in this house. Is this my forever house? Maybe I get a big crush on the house, or I find deal breakers. I’m trying to enjoy the ride, even though it’s an emotional roller coaster. Thankfully, you have sent me some questions to distract me from my home search! This episode, I answer questions about... [8:59] Adding color and creating a TV wall in a living room (Heather) [19:38] Making a tiny living room cozy (Veronica) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages. Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Spring is here, and my mood is lightened - even though things are getting intense! We have a move-out date and no new house. Although we have focused in the New York area, we may be considering some other options. If you’re from Richmond or Charlottesville, VA, I’d love to hear your experiences!  This episode, I answer questions about... [4:44] Guidelines for curtains (Gonie) [13:46] Adding character to a blank canvas home (Donna) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

April is flying by, and I’m getting ready to go to a conference! I’m grateful to have this opportunity to reconnect with my business friends, and I hope you all are able to get out there as well. I hope you’re traveling, meeting up with old friends, and getting re-energized with new ideas. I have some new ideas for you today, thanks to the mailbag! This episode, I answer questions about... [5:48] Incorporating a home office into a living space (Andy) [14:40] Art placement and sizing in a large room (Jennifer) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages. Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Affordable Interior Design is hiring a Design Business Manager.  Are you or someone you know the right fit? Apply today at https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/careers

Today we’re celebrating 7 years of podcasting! I have done well over 300 episodes including bonus episodes, I have an amazing tribe of premium members, and I have all of you devoted listeners. I’m so grateful for you all providing me with so much inspiration via your questions, pictures, and scenarios. It never gets boring for me, and I hope it never gets boring for you either! If you want to get me a gift for this anniversary, I would love it if you would leave a review wherever you listen to this podcast. Another way to show some love would be to become a premium member. Premium members not only get access to a bonus episode just for them every month, but they also have their own mailbag where they can write in and get their questions answered quickly. In addition, they have access to the archives of all past premium episodes. If you need more episodes to listen to, go premium! This episode, I answer questions about... [6:26] Incorporating sculptures and paintings into interior design (Sarah) [14:00] Natural rugs and materials for families with young children (Bailey) [17:39] Statement chandeliers (Betty) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages. Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I shared last week that we sold our house, and we sold for well over the asking price! As a designer, not only have I had amazing home stagers on the podcast but I also study staging a little bit. I dabble, but it is definitely a different skill set than designing. In The Academy, we have an amazing and very successful stager: Ashley Tapley of House Candy Home. She is based in California, but after a one hour Zoom session with her I am convinced that working with her is the reason we got top dollar in one weekend. If you’re looking to sell, definitely look into House Candy Home!   Before getting into the mailbag, I share a few tips about staging a home: [5:36] Clear out your refrigerator and freezer [7:02] Refresh your pillows [8:01] Incorporate plants [9:22] Make it smell good - without trying too hard   This episode, I answer questions about... [12:21] Renovating a house you intend to sell within five years (Kimberlee) [16:16] Blending a love of color with a cabin aesthetic (Jennifer)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

April is upon us, and Spring is here at long last. We recently sold our house, and we’re all having mixed feelings about it. My husband and I are thrilled with the amount we got, but I’m feeling nervous because we don’t know where we’re going next. We’re giving up not just a house, but truly a member of our family. When I design homes for anyone, I want them to become more aligned with their home and to fall more in love with it. I want them to feel a sense of ownership and pride over their space. When I design my own spaces, I want each member of the family to truly feel represented by the design and functionality. I know we are going to feel even more excited about the next space, but there is a massive leap of faith involved with selling your house at the height of the market. I am very hopeful, however, that we will find the perfect place for us before we are displaced in July. This episode, I answer questions about... [4:31] A sideboard or buffet to store china in a formal dining room (Melissa) [11:45] Rugs in the dining room (Bailey) [16:35] A living room before and after (Ranae) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages. Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I’m joined by a special guest, Courtney Clark. I love bringing you inspiring stories of people who made a major turn in their lives and decided to pursue their passions in interior design. Courtney is a recent graduate of The Academy and I’m so excited to have her on because I know her story is going to be filled with messages and ideas that will resonate with you. They might even inspire you to start your own journey toward becoming an interior designer! This episode, we discuss… [2:34] Courtney’s family and background [3:15] What inspired Courtney to pursue The Academy [7:44] Courtney’s experience working for a designer [10:46] Jumping into interior design based on passion [12:23] The foundation of education for an interior design business [18:42] The trajectory of Courtney’s interior design career [23:15] The elements of interior design that are lighting Courtney up right now [26:35] Courtney’s favorite furnishing in her home Links: Check out The Academy Connect with Courtney:   Website Instagram   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

We finally did it! We decided to take advantage of the real estate bubble and put our house on the market. Not knowing where we are going yet is so discombobulating and distracting. As an interior designer, I need to design my next home. I also need to know what to take as I pack our current home. My heart is aflutter, but I am choosing to surrender and see what opportunities arise. I am going to have faith that the right thing will show up at the right time. I’ll let you know when it happens, but in the meantime let me answer your questions! This episode, I answer questions about... [6:28] Investing in a leather couch (Lorri) [17:00] Coordinating curtains in a home with an open concept floor plan (Kirsten) [23:36] Installing Craftsman style door and window frames in a non-Craftsman style home (Monica) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Change is in the air! We are putting our house on the market, so we have to pretend that nobody lives there - but I do get to style my house every day before I leave. The business is getting a total rebrand, so things are starting to look different there as well. As I’m going through all these changes, I’m getting asked some big questions. It’s been a long time since I’ve gone back to basics here on the podcast. People often ask me how I got started and why I decided to become an interior designer, so I thought I would share those answers here with you all.  This episode, I answer questions about... [3:34] Why I started Affordable Interior Design  [10:54] Why I really became an interior designer (hint: revenge!)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy March - and almost spring! The sun is out, the warm weather is coming, and I’m feeling alive. I’m jumping right into the mailbag today, and if you have burning questions please feel free to submit them for some free interior design advice: affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   This episode, I answer questions about... [3:33] Buying window curtains and rods (Sabrina) [11:13] Keeping lighting fixtures cohesive within a transitional minimal style (Bee)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I’m joined by special guest, Latoyia Smith, who is a graduate from our Academy program. I’m excited to share her journey and her career aspirations. I’m sure her story will resonate with and inspire you, because Latoyia has one of the most inspiring stories to come out of the Academy.   This episode, we discuss… [2:15] Latoyia’s background and artistic interests [7:53] Making the leap to interior design [13:43] How Latoyia started and grew her business [32:53] Reinventing yourself in your forties [36:25] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome [38:21] What is coming up next for Latoyia [41:47] Demystifying interior design Connect with Latoyia:   Website Instagram Facebook Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This episode is all about trends: what’s going to be in for 2022 and what’s going to be out.  You may be wondering why I didn’t record this episode in January, but the month totally got away from me. I’m in the middle of a rebrand, I had to move out of my office, and I’m moving out of my house to go, who knows where. There is a lot of transition, but also a lot of reflection. Today I’m sharing upcoming trends, because it’s never too late to incorporate trends into your space! I will also be sharing the things I hope go away in 2022, or the things I think are becoming obsolete.   My predicted interior design trends for 2022: [3:02] The pendulum swinging from gray to beige [4:22] Curved furniture [5:26] Carved furniture [6:44] 3D art [8:09] Benjamin Moore’s color of the year [8:51] Pantone’s color of the year [9:50] Canopy beds   My predictions for what will be out in 2022: [11:31] Gray washed wood [12:20] Open kitchens [13:34] Minimalism [14:38] Black hardware [19:42] Macrame   My mailbag is running low, and I could use some more letters from you all! If you have questions, thoughts, or ideas, please send them along. Fill out the form, and I would be happy to answer your question on an upcoming episode.   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Happy Valentine’s Day week! Are you guys feeling the love? I am totally feeling the interior design love. Lately, I’ve been working on a lot of projects so I’ve been really busy.  The other night I was stuck on one of my projects, and I told myself that I needed to get up, move around, and stop looking at the computer. If I take the pressure off for a minute, by the time I’m done getting my refill of water (or grabbing some ice cream!) and I go back to the project, I have some inspiration. As I was walking through the kitchen, I thought that if my biggest stressor is having to find an amazing rug tonight, then I’m pretty lucky. I love what I do, and I was just feeling all “Valentinesy”.  I think it’s easy to take things for granted, and I want to inspire you all to take a look at your own lives and tap back into the love as well.    This episode, I answer questions about... [7:32] Choosing throw pillows for a couch (Rebecca) [13:05] Using couch covers while waiting to replace a couch (Charlie) [20:24] What to keep in mind when picking paint colors for a windowless basement (Ranae)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy February! I hope you’re thriving and surviving the winter weather.  I’m no longer in my beautiful, magical storefront, and instead I’m working from my converted sunroom.  I’m struggling to feel inspired here, and things have felt really uncertain.  I’m sure you all can empathize with that feeling of being unsettled - but as an interior designer it is extra unsettling because everything from the office is in my basement in boxes.  When everything feels uncertain, it can be hard to feel confident or to feel joy.  I realized the other day, though, that this could be a time of exploration and curiosity. This could be a time when I find something new rather than lose something, and I’m really excited to think of it that way. You all have been sending me wonderful questions, and I’m excited to dive into them! This episode, I answer questions about... [5:59] Home office desk solutions (Debbie) [13:18] Designing a warm and homey laundry room (Pia) [19:19] Updating stair railing posts and handrails (Allison) [28:34] Alternatives to interior design options (Latoyia) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

As we near the end of January, I’m watching the snow and hoping I will be able to travel again sometime soon. In the meantime, I’ve decided to plan a staycation where I can check into a hotel for two days, order room service, and never leave my space. I’m going to envision the new year, have a virtual dinner with some of my business friends, and take some time to unplug in the safest way possible right now. I hope you’re staying safe, and I hope you have things to look forward to as well. I’m so excited that you’ve continued to write in with lots of delicious questions, so I’m jumping back into the mailbag!   This episode, I answer questions about... [6:43] Placing a dining room table in the middle of a kitchen (Amelia) [15:35] Choosing the size of artwork to hang near a dining room table (Julieane) [19:05] Covering wood paneling (Eric)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

This week I’m joined by a special guest, Paige from Farmhouse Vernacular. Paige’s content centers around a farmhouse she and her husband purchased four years ago, and they have spent the last four years renovating it to look as it might have looked when it was originally built. She has so many tips to share on how to incorporate historic pieces, without making a space look dated.   This episode, we discuss… [2:43] Purchasing antiques and shopping secondhand [5:51] Refurbishing old furniture [14:00] Salvaging fabrics and upholstered furniture [18:08] Taking advantage of deals online [22:40] Haggling on prices [30:20] Buying items at auctions [33:53] How to follow along with Paige’s farmhouse renovation   Links:   Connect with Paige:   Website Podcast Instagram YouTube   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m packing up my office this week, and feeling quite sentimental about the space.  I’m also realizing, however, that everything special to me in this space is something I brought with me.  Nothing in the space is intrinsically magical, but it’s what I bring and what I feel in the space that makes it magical.  So whether you’re downsizing, or moving on from a special space or job or relationship, just know that the magic is in you. This episode, I answer questions about... [7:53] Where to shop for a twin bed (Ranae) [14:02] Colors to compliment existing artwork while freshening a space (Tiffany)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I’m joined by a special guest, Maria Failla. You guys know I do not have a green thumb, and while I appreciate plants, I am not a connoisseur.  Maria is a connoisseur, and you may know her from her podcast, Bloom and Grow Radio.  She is here to educate us on how to choose plants, how to place plants, and how to help plants thrive. This episode, we discuss… [3:28] Maria’s history with plants [6:24] How to place your plants around a room [10:53] Natural light versus artificial light [16:59] The effect of the home environment on plant care [17:56] Low light plants [21:53] Plant food and fertilizer [26:17] Whether plants can thrive in low to no light [28:10] Fake plants [31:52] Low-maintenance plants [39:18] Fiddle-leaf fig plants [42:39] Plants and interior design Links: Connect with Maria Failla:   Website Podcast Instagram   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy holidays! I hope you’re able to relax, and to take some time to reflect on the last year and think about what is upcoming. I’m processing a big change myself, because in two weeks the storefront I’ve been in and loved for six years will no longer be mine. This is where I’ve grown my business, and I’m feeling a bit displaced.I’ve definitely been emotional, and I’ve been playing Dolly Parton’s Hard Candy Christmas on repeat. When you find your little corner of the world where you feel large and in charge, and it’s steeped in memories, it can be hard to let go. It’s tough to feel uncertain during the holidays, but answering your questions always brings me joy. This episode, I answer questions about... [9:11] Where to purchase large paintings and framed photographs (Stephanie) [15:24] Choosing a color palette for a bathroom remodel (Vanessa) [20:09] Keeping a room cohesive (Diana) [24:56] Updating a kitchen without doing a full remodel (Diana)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m so excited to be back with you today, and I am joined by a special guest.  You may know Julie Coraccio from her own podcast, Clear Your Clutter.  She focuses on the holistic aspect of decluttering, including mental, relationships, health, emotional and spiritual decluttering.     This episode, we discuss… [2:43] The difference between a designer and an organizer [5:26] Where to start when working with an organizer [7:31] How to know if you should be hiring a professional organizer [9:34] Determining the timeline for an organization project [11:03] What to look for when hiring a professional organizer [13:27] Sustainable organizing [21:30] Quick tips for kitchen organization [24:26] Quick tips for bathroom organization [26:52] Differences in organization between partners   Links:   Connect with Julie Coraccio:   Website Instagram Facebook Podcast   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I hope your holiday season is going well! I haven’t had a lot of supply issues with gifts, but I’m sort of glad I haven’t found the right house yet because the lead times on furniture are so intense right now.  Today I’m digging right  into the mailbag so you can kick off 2022 with confidence and good design. This episode, I answer questions about... [3:27] How to decorate when you can’t figure out the architectural statement (Sami) [18:08] Mixing metals with fixtures and hardware (Gonie) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy December! Time is flying, and we are super busy with rebranding here at Affordable Interior Design. I’m kicking off this episode with a little talk about goals, because it’s on my mind with everything going on in the business. I share about the power of writing down your goals, keeping visual reminders close by, and reflecting on your progress. This episode, I answer questions about... [15:32] Choosing light fixtures while keeping resale value in mind (Matthew) [21:58] Two-tone kitchens and different colored cabinetry (Gonie)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy Thanksgiving! Are you supposed to be making cranberry sauce right now? Are you escaping into the bathroom, the closet, or the basement, just to catch your breath and get some alone time? I feel you!  I love having people over, and I love to cook (even though I’m not all that good at it!) but I’m an only child at heart and every now and again, I need my personal space.  So if you need some time to yourself to think about interior design, I have an episode for you! This episode, I answer questions about... [10:19] Making a bedroom feel balanced despite an unbalanced window placement (Carrie) [22:05] Updating a galley kitchen (Cindy) [23:39] Cabinetry [27:56] Crown molding, countertops, backsplash, and hardware [31:26] Lighting over the kitchen sink [31:49] Kitchen sink [32:22] The space between the kitchen and the open concept dining area To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

We’re halfway through November. Kids’ sports are winding down, and the supply chain issues have forced me to start my holiday shopping early. I also just learned that home goods will be going up in price, so I’m passing this warning on to you: Now is the moment to refresh your home with new furniture and decor. This episode, I answer questions about... [7:24] Decorating a kitchen without the budget for a renovation (Nicola) [11:58] Making a full length piano keyboard look good in a small space (Nicola) [16:21] Designing a combination living room and home office space (Desiree)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   [23:59] You can also hear more about how I am licensing my business model for interior designers.  If you want to avoid the school of hard knocks for your own business, head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast to learn more! Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Want to work with Betsy? She has 3 positions available! Hear the details in this very special episode. 

Happy November!  I hope you’re all doing well, staying warm, and are cuddled up by the fire listening to this podcast.  I’m kicking off this episode with a celebration of my recent podcast milestone (300 episodes)! Thank you all so much for being engaged listeners, sending me your questions, and participating in this special community.   I’m also sharing some business updates, and then I’m reaching back into the mailbag.   This episode, I answer questions about... [8:19] Brightening up a house with ‘non-trendy’ paint colors (Laura) [16:40] Incorporating adjustable standing desks into home offices (Matthew) [22:05] Differentiating area rugs from wall-to-wall carpeting (Franzi)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Wondering why I’m devoting an episode to LuLaRich?  If you’re a regular listener, you know I love true crime and entrepreneurship - these two subjects meet in this docu-series on Amazon Prime.  My friend, Libby Rothschild, joined me to discuss the show and we are both sharing this episode on our respective podcasts.  LuLaRich is fascinating, and you won’t want to miss our conversation.   This episode, we discuss… [5:38] Summary of LuLaRich [9:56] Multi-level Marketing (MLMs) [12:53] Creating a movement as a business owner [14:42] Selling products versus recruiting people [18:59] Nepotism in business [23:19] Policies and procedures in business [27:03] Sales and marketing versus management and operations [30:10] Staying true to core values within a business [33:41] Scaling without losing quality [39:14] Prioritizing people over profit [40:23] Pressure for retailers to look a certain way [45:03] Reducing competition and seeing other women succeed [48:50] The haves and the have nots [51:25] Top takeaways   Connect with Libby: Website Podcast Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Halloween is coming! I love to dress up, but I also love to accompany my children to the door and make sure they don’t take too much candy… while also peeking at other people’s decor. I hope you and your families are getting ready to have some fun during this season as well!  This week I’m digging back into the mailbag to answer some design questions.   This episode, I answer questions about... [6:26] Dining room window treatments (Stacey) [13:00] Dining room furniture (Stacey) [17:57] A baffling ceiling situation (Stacey)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Change is in the air… I redecorated the storefront for Fall, and I got to buy some fun new things due to the flood damage.  This month we are also rebranding as Uploft Interior Design!  Don’t worry, the podcast will stay as Affordable Interior Design - but it’s by Uploft.  I’m really excited about the change, and it’s going to allow us to expand and grow.  My life in general is a bit in flux right now, and I’m learning to enjoy the literal and metaphorical changes in seasons.   This episode, I answer questions about... [5:14] The best decor and furniture arrangement for a rectangular space (Stacey) [19:03] Treatment for a small window (Ranae) [24:12] Choosing drapery colors and patterns (Cara) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Happy October!  Today I’m sharing something that literally came to me in a dream after the last episode.  I have more to say about what it means to live your best life, and then we will get back to the mail bag.  I’m revising some responses to previous questions, so tune in to hear the tweaks I’m making to past answers. [2:29] Behind the scenes of making your dreams come true This episode, I answer questions about... [9:48] Lighting in an open concept room with eight foot ceilings (Brandi, episode 296) [12:28] How to handle it when you feel disappointed with interior design services (Lydia, episode 295)   To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Have you ever written me a question that you would want me to revisit?  Is there an answer I gave you that just wasn’t a fit, or you wound up going in a different direction? I’d love to hear about it! Challenge me, and send your questions to affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast . Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m here with a guest this week! I love having a guest, because they provide inspiration and help me to think about new things in different ways.  While interior design seems like it’s just one topic, there are many facets to any industry - and interior design is no different.  Justin Breen and I met through our business group.  We were put into a breakout session on Zoom and we connected right away.  He has some great things to share with you guys about the importance of knowing yourself as a designer and as a business owner. This episode, we discuss… [2:25] Interior designing your mindset [5:30] What entrepreneurs have to overcome [7:07] Staying in your zone of genius [8:25] Making a leap when it seems complex [10:12] Excuses versus motivation [12:05] Making an artistic dream come true [17:03] The Kolbe A Index and what your results mean for your business [23:40] Investing in your business [32:03] The importance of knowing yourself   Links:   Connect with Justin Breen:   www.BrEpicLLC.com www.linkedin.com/in/justinbreen1   Kolbe Assessment:   kolbe.com/kolbe-a-index/   Print Assessment:  https://paulhertzgroup.com   Disc Assessment:  https://thediscpersonalitytest.com   Achiever Assessment:  https://visionsparksearch.com/how-we-help/achiever-assessments/   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m in a celebratory mood!  September holds a lot of meaning here at Affordable Interior Design.  It’s back to school time, and it’s also my anniversary.  I celebrated my personal anniversary with my husband of 11 years, and our anniversary happens to be September 11th.  So as a New Yorker, this date has extra meaning.  It was 9/11 that spurred me to become an interior designer. I also celebrated my business anniversary - it’s my 16th anniversary of being in business.  I still can’t have a big celebration due to the pandemic, so I’m celebrating in a small way.  It’s me, my dog, and the podcast listeners.  It’s really easy to miss the wins because you’re so busy with the to-do list, so thank you for indulging me as I celebrate this win. I also want to celebrate that I get to help you guys by answering your questions. Please send me your questions at affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast .  I’m always excited to help you! This episode, I answer a question about... [14:31] To paint the ceiling, or not to paint the ceiling (Griffin) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

September is bringing some changes here - the kids are going back to school, and my storefront lease may be coming to an end.  My store is a special place where I have grown my business, and grown this podcast, so it’s definitely tugging at my heartstrings.  I don’t know yet where my next chapter will be, but I will be opening up an amazing new location soon.   While I plan all of that in the background, please keep sending me your questions at affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast .  I’m always excited to help you!   This episode, I answer questions about... [5:11] Balancing a career in interior design with having a family [8:13] Lighting in an open concept room with eight foot ceilings (Brandi) [14:45] Matching new furniture with current furniture (Joanne) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I’m celebrating my business’ Sweet Sixteen! Sure, due to the pandemic it’s a party with myself...but I wanted to share so that you can celebrate with me as well! The podcast has also been around for over six years, so that feels like a win too.  But really, the thing that makes these events so special is that you’re here with us, supporting us, and getting value.  That’s what makes it all worth it.   To help me celebrate, if you would send a question to the mailbag at affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast , I would greatly appreciate it!  I’m always excited to help you! This episode, I answer questions about... [5:22] How to handle it when you feel disappointed with interior design services (Lydia) [15:01] Feeling empowered to have a beautiful home on a reasonable budget (Emily) [18:06] Unifying spaces after building an addition (Sarah) To see the accompanying pictures, make sure you head over to affordableinteriordesign.com/links and check out the YouTube channel or our social media pages.   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I am back from vacation and happy to be with you all!  I hope you were able to take some amazing vacations and make some memories this summer.  My topic for today’s episode is rustic design, and I’ll share my thoughts about that trend before digging into the mailbag. This episode, I discuss… [4:24] The definition of rustic design [6:10] Pitfalls with designing in a rustic style with clients [9:22] Helping rustic style to work better in everyday life [13:33] Mailbag note: German rental traditions regarding kitchens And I answer a question about... [15:54] Considerations for tiling behind the vanity in a master bathroom   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m so excited to be back with you again this week, and I’m joined in this episode by Shannon Aldridge.  Normally, I follow up with my students after they have completed the Academy so we can see what they are up to and how their dreams have manifested.  Today, you’re getting the inside scoop from Shannon, who is currently going through the Academy after enrolling around three months ago.   This episode, we discuss… [2:39] Shannon’s decision to pursue an interior design career [4:13] What drew Shannon to the Academy [5:17] Skills included in the Academy that were missing from Shannon’s previous program [9:16] Working with clients while going through the Academy [14:17] The value of joining the Academy at this point in time [17:11] Obstacles and challenges for interior designers [23:42] The most interesting part of the Academy for Shannon [27:13] Shannon’s advice for someone who wants to move forward with being an interior  designer [31:43] Shannon’s next steps within the Academy   Links: Connect with Shannon: https://www.chrysalisinteriordecorating.com/ https://www.instagram.com/chrysalis_interior_decorating Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week, I’m leading off the podcast with a topic before diving into the mailbag.  I work with clients every week, transforming their spaces and learning about what they want to do in their homes or commercial spaces.  Bringing some of those topics to you is going to be so fun!     This week’s topic is updating a condo, apartment, or co-op [3:28].   Then, I answer questions about… [11:20] Achieving different styles with your plumbing fixtures (Morgan) [18:47] Mixing metals in a room (Morgan)   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Academy: https://affordableinteriordesign.com/academy   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign  

Summer is a time to liberate yourself and to think outside the box.  I recorded this episode wearing a crop top - what are you leaning into this summer? I want to hear all about it!  My business is going through a time of significant growth and development, and we have even more exciting news to share soon.   In the meantime, I’m digging into the mailbag to answer your questions. This episode, I answer questions about… [5:31] An eye-catching kitchen renovation for a vacation rental home (Derek) [14:49] Painting interior doors (Derek) [19:30] The most important skill in interior design (Moni)   Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Academy: https://affordableinteriordesign.com/academy Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m coming to you from the dog days of summer in the northeast.  I love the heat, and I have had the opportunity to take my kids on some great “adventure dates” this summer.  One of our future adventures entails helping to make my store more inviting in the wake of the major flood that happened a few weeks ago.  I’m excited about that!   I would love to hear about what you are doing over the summer.  You can keep me in the loop by sending your comments and questions to affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast !   This episode, I answer questions about… [5:34] Redesigning a home, and keeping a furniture set that doesn’t fit the new theme (Tabitha) [14:05] Making an heirloom more aesthetically pleasing (Tabitha) [18:26] The practicality and longevity of open shelves in a kitchen (Allison)   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Academy: https://affordableinteriordesign.com/academy   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

There are so many exciting things going on with the podcast!  I really wanted you to be able to see the images I was talking about on the show, so I launched a YouTube channel.  We also have a Facebook platform, a show notes page, and an Instagram.  You can check everything out at affordableinteriordesign.com/links   New questions with lots of delicious pictures have been rolling in, and I’m so grateful!    This episode, I answer questions about… [6:07] Replacing a formal dining room set with a corner banquette (Irina) [15:57] How to select a rug for a nursery (Kelsey) [26:51] Choosing a paint color for the ceiling (Tabitha)   Links:   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Academy: https://affordableinteriordesign.com/academy   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I’m so excited to be back with you again this week, and I’m joined in this episode by Ashley Tapley of House Candy Home.  Ashley has been a member of the Academy for just over a year, and she came from a career in marketing and graphic design.  She started with a home staging business, and then after a couple years she had several realtors referring her to their clients who had recently purchased new homes and wanted help with interior design.  Ashley felt like she needed to up her game in order to take on these clients and serve them well, so she sought out more education and landed in the Academy. This episode, we discuss… [3:04] Ashley’s leap from marketing to home staging [4:15] Ashley’s background and family life [5:38] Why Ashley felt she needed more education to serve interior design clients [7:32] What made Ashley choose the Academy [8:30] The characteristics of the Academy that appealed to Ashley [12:45] What excites Ashley about interior design [18:17] Ashley’s journey through the Academy [21:01] The importance of mood boards [24:28] The workload of interior design + home staging [26:24] Advice for people who are hesitant to make the leap into interior design   Links:   Connect with Ashley: https://www.housecandyhome.com https://www.instagram.com/housecandyhome https://www.facebook.com/housecandyhome   Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

I have been a little delinquent in recording because I was on vacation with my family in Maine, but I’m excited to be back with you!  I’m sharing some vacation lodging tips, and then jumping back into your questions. This episode, I answer questions about… [8:03] Having carpeting in the center of a living room, bordered by luxury vinyl plank (Veronica) [14:25] Artwork and inspiration pieces when re-decorating a family room (Ronna) [22:45] How to update a dark, barn wood fireplace (Cindy) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com   Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book   Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast   Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Summer is here, and I’m looking forward to all the opportunities to get out of the office. We have vacations planned, the kids will be going to camp and playing sports, and I’m also fielding record numbers of client inquiries. It’s very exciting to see people coming out of the COVID shell and looking forward to entertaining in their homes.  This episode, I answer questions about… [5:53] What to do with a chair rail in the hallway of a mid-century modern home (Ranae - Atlanta, GA) [13:18] Considerations when choosing a timeless kitchen backsplash   (Ranae - Atlanta, GA) [19:57] Cloud tiling in a powder room: sophisticated or silly?  (Beth - Colorado) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

It has been a rough week here, as my storefront has undergone some serious water damage. The silver lining, however, is that we are rebranding and I’m excited to share that as well as our new social media platforms. Interior design is a visual medium, and it will be nice to share pictures and video clips on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. All of that will be ramping up soon, so stay tuned! This episode, I answer questions about… [7:37] How to make a new build home feel relaxed, organic, and not so “new” (Bailey, Arizona) [13:03] Where to buy printed sheets for kids (Ashley, North Carolina) [17:29] How to lay out the furniture in a living room with the fireplace in the corner (Brandy, Colorado) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

As I weigh the merits of moving away from our beloved river towns in Westchester, I’m enjoying answering the questions in the mailbag about home renovation dilemmas. This episode, I answer questions about... [9:36] Flooring choices for a bathroom: vinyl, sheeting, or linoleum (Alison, Canada) [17:46] The kitchen backsplash: patterned or plain (Natalie and Brian, Scotland) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

This week I was able to sit inside my favorite coffee shop, and I was able to get back into podcasting. What an exciting time! I’m thrilled to be able to answer your questions about interior design.  This episode, I answer questions about... [3:41] Matching paneling to fixtures in the bathroom (Alison, British Columbia, Canada) [8:55] Designing and decorating a functional entryway with storage solutions for shoes, coats, keys, and mail (Sabrina, Hastings-On-Hudson, New York) [18:52] Using tile in bathrooms while maintaining the home’s overall aesthetic (Bee, Houston, Texas) Links: Website: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com Book: https://www.betsyhelmuth.com/my-book Become a Premium Member: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Submit Your Questions: https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affordableinteriordesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AffIntDesign

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Kim White joins Betsy to talk about home energy! Find him at www.kimwhitecoaching.com

Betsy answers your design questions, reads listener podcast birthday love AND offer a new way to write in!

Betsy talks to the great Libby Rothschild!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy tells you some hard truths about Zoom backgrounds!

Betsy talks to Devin Kulka from The Kulka Group!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Caitlin Callahan from Decorative Block Associates tells Betsy all about designing for hotels! www.decorativeblockassociates.com

Betsy has a very special guest!  www.matthewgunselman.com

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers a listener's design questions!

Betsy's back, and answers all of your design questions!

Betsy talks with Amanda Stewart of Feels Like Home Interior Design!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy talks about pivoting during the pandemic, and she answers your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy and a guest talk about The Academy!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers your interior design questions. affordableingteriordesign.com

Betsy answers your interior design questions. affordableinteriordesign.com  

Betsy answers your interior design questions. affordableinteriordesign.com

Betsy from affordableinteriordesign.com answers your interior design questions.

Betsy answers your interior design questions. Visit the website at https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com

Betsy reflects on the current Coronavirus situation and on the past 5 years of podcasting. https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/    

Betsy reflects on the current Coronavirus situation and on the past 5 years of podcasting.  https://www.affordableinteriordesign.com/  

Betsy answers all of your design questions!   affordableinteriordesign.com/podcast industrywest.com

Betsy answers all your design questions! affordableinteriordesign.com/academy affordableinteriordesign.com/fedex  

Betsy answers all of your design questions! affordableinteriordesign.com/fedex industrywest.com

Vote for Affordable Interior Design! affordableinteriordesign.com/fedex

Betsy answers all of your design questions! Apply for the AID Salesperson:  affordableinteriordesign.com/careers Send Betsy a Question for the Podcast: [email protected] Check Out Our Sponsor:  industrywest.com

Betsy answers all your design questions! Apply for the AID Salesperson:  affordableinteriordesign.com/careers Send Betsy a Question for the Podcast: [email protected] Check Out Our Sponsor:  industrywest.com

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy and her daughter answer all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your holiday design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions! Shoptagr Contest Link: http://www.clkmg.com/shoptagr_inc/affordable

Betsy answers all your design questions! Shoptagr Contest Link: http://www.clkmg.com/shoptagr_inc/affordable

Betsy answers all of your design questions! http://www.clkmg.com/shoptagr_inc/affordable

Betsy answers all of your design questions! Shoptagr Contest Link: http://www.clkmg.com/shoptagr_inc/affordable

Betsy is joined by one of her designers, Paulina DuPain!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy interviews HGTV's Meredith Lerner!

Betsy reflects on 9/11, talks about why she got into the design business, and answers listener questions.

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy has a huge announcement!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Happy 200th episode! Betsy dives back into the ol' mailbag and answers your burning design questions.

BEST OF! Overly anxious? Having trouble sleeping? Poor eating habits plague you? There’s a Feng Shui remedy for that! Betsy cures what ails you in this episode with easy fixes that take minutes and cost pennies. You’re guaranteed to feel better after listening to this episode.

Betsy interviews Catherine Lewis-Brown!

Betsy talks with designer Angela Lutzker!

Betsy answers all your design questions, with Susan Simpson!

Betsy shines the light on Affordable Interior Design's own Bita Salehi!

Betsy talks with the Trading Spaces genius about his new book, what inspires him, and all things design!

Betsy speaks with premium members Andrew and Robert about tiles, new homes and discount stores!

BEST OF! Can you handle the truth?! It is important to keep it real when responding to design questions. Today Betsy softly delivers a few smackdowns to listeners who need a little tough love.

Betsy talks with Jacqueline Snyder!  Subscribe to her podcast: www.theproductboss.com/episodes Instagram: @theproductboss Website: www.theproductboss.com Connect with Jacqueline at: www.designerconsultingcoop.com

Betsy talks to one of Affordable Interior Design's designers, Ashley Craumer!

Betsy talks to designer Stephanie Naimer!

Betsy empties out the Ol' Mailbag!

Betsy talks to Ben Hale from Easy Living Yards! Easy plants list - giveaway How to look at your yard like a pro - giveaway Membership discount plant finder links Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Plant Database

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy talks with Heather and Heidi who give their design advice!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy has a personal announcement, and answers listener questions. 

Pop a squat, grab a chair, and settle in for this episode. Seating determines how comfy you will be and how long your guests will want to stay in your home. Betsy gives tips about finding the perfect seating solution from sectionals to counter stools.

Small space living is trendy now with the recent construction of NYC's newest abodes known as micro apartments. But Betsy was living tiny for over a decade before it became cool. She shares ways to make small functional and stylish in this episode.

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy welcomes designer Allison Rachlis!

Betsy has exciting news for you!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

The business is expanding and Betsy needs your help!

Betsy has a huge announcement, plus she answers all your burning questions!

Betsy interviews Myquillyn Smith about her book and helping women embrace their homes.

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Summer is ending. Colder weather and school days are here.  Does anyone else get a little blue this time of year? Betsy likes to make herself feel better with design.  Perking up can be as easy as picking new pillows. She will tell you how!

When you are shopping, buying things that are out of scale feels awkward. Avoid that not-so-comfy feeling by staying standard with Betsy's size guidelines.

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy offers advice about decorating bare spaces and tips on starting a business!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy and Gabi answer all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all of your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Two lil' guests join Betsy in the studio to answer your questions about kid-friendly spaces. We're talkin' furniture, fabrics, storage, and more.   Check out the favorite artist that I recommend here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtFable

We are joined by painter/photographer extraordinaire, Monica Shulman. She is giving us the down-low on art, prints, photos and much more. Check out her stunning work here: https://www.monicashulman.com

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

Betsy answers all your design questions!

When Betsy's away, the podcast producer will play! While Betsy is on a well deserved vacation, enjoy a rerun of this episode where she and her producer Katharine Heller deconstruct this Buzzfeed article: 16 Times Home Decor Went Too Far.

Betsy answers listener questions about decorating a large forever home, why transoms are tricky, what to do with your home office, and Betsy has book news!

Betsy answers all of your questions about drapery, colors and more!

Betsy answers all of your questions about making a space your own, working in a bedroom, outdoor rugs, and more!

Betsy answers all of your questions about windows, pumpkin patches, designing your cubicle and more!

Betsy answers listener questions about sofas,. clutter, lamps and more!

Betsy answers all of your questions in her latest Facebook Q&A!

Betsy talks to architect Steven Secon about the difference between designers, architects and contractors, how to ask for what you want, cost estimates and more!

Betsy does a New Years reboot, and shares some more trends for 2018!

Betsy answers listener questions about sophistication, safes and rugs!

Betsy answers listener questions about piece placements, barns and more! 

Betsy answers listener questions about armchairs, color palettes, getting your start as a designer, and more!

Betsy is healthy and ready to kick 2018 off with a bang!  First, she announces big news.  Then she reveals her feelings and thoughts about this year's coming fads.

Betsy gets honest about cherry wood and other design dilemmas!

Betsy answers listener questions about paint, polish and more!

Betsy answers listener questions about family, wood and luxe!

Betsy's back with more design tips from listener questions!

Betsy answers listener questions about designing with the holidays in mind, medium furniture, rugs and more!

Betsy (the birthday girl!) shares how she plans to relax on her special day. Then she answers listener questions about light, rugs, and all things beige. 

Betsy answers listener questions about style with some tough love. Plus, her favorite places to get sleeper sofas, and tips on wallpaper.

During our busy season, clients are calling non-stop. Betsy muses about her current workload and shares stories of recent clients.

Betsy has said some bad things about neutrals--she will be the first person to admit it.  Is she now having a change of heart? She shares her feelings about white, ivory, beige, and taupe in this episode. ​

Betsy answers all of your burning design questions about legacy furniture, exposed brick and downsizing!

This week Betsy was the featured guest on the Build Your House Yourself University Podcast.  She shared her top tips for starting from scratch, creating a color palette, and working with metal finishes.  Check out www.byhyu.com for more info.

Betsy answers all your questions about colors, design compromise with a partner, and more!

Betsy answers listener questions about designing for businesses big and small!

Premium member Dot desperately needs to update her bedroom. But where to start when everything is feeling less than fresh? Betsy breaks it down and transforms her room during this episode.

Premium member Hannah is moving from the city to the burbs of Montreal.  Her new home is full of charm but needs a lot of work.  From flooring to fireplaces to kitchen islands, everything needs consideration, and Betsy is here to help!

Betsy shares her answers to listener questions about tubs, windows, and news about Affordable Interior Design!

Betsy lifts back the curtain on how her podcast is made. From costs to downloads to tips for getting started, she shares her secrets with you and with Siimon Sander, from Entrepreneur Decoded.

Designing with your partner in mind. Hard! Moving to a new space. Overwhelming! Trying to be perfect in the suburbs. Impossible! Therapist Melissa Divaris Thompson of EmbracingJoy.com helps us navigate these issues.

Betsy answers all of your sizzling summer questions!

Betsy answers all of your questions about flooring, finding your style, getting quirky, & beach house pet peeves​

Betsy answers all of your questions about curtains, clutter, color, and more!

Betsy answers all of your questions about paint color, habits, Feng Shui and more!

Set designer and art director Erin O'Keefe joins us in-studio to discuss patterns, accessorizing, and "wow" factor. She and Betsy debate a few old design rules and come up with a few new ones. 

Betsy answers all of your questions about nurseries, bedrooms and, yes, ugly recliners.

More great tips from Betsy!

Betsy answers more of your burning questions, just in time for Summer!

Betsy answers more of your burning questions, just in time for Summer!

We have been so busy over here at AID that we didn't even get to toast our big 100th episode. We are making up for that with today's show and taking a record number of your design questions!

Budget travel sounds like an oxymoron. But our guest Tina Williams from TripBound shares tips on making vacation affordable. From where to go to when to book, we are getting the inside scoop on leaving town. http://www.tripbound.com

We are joined by painter/photographer extraordinaire, Monica Shulman. She is giving us the down-low on art, prints, photos and much more. Check out her stunning work here: https://www.monicashulman.com

Listener Roseanne wrote in with some great questions about her great room. Betsy gives her a bit of a sectional smackdown in this tip-packed episode.

Listener Vanessa wrote in with plenty of problems in both her NYC and LA spaces. Being bi-coastal is double fun but you also have double the spaces to design. Betsy is up for the challenge in this episode!

Two lil' guests join Betsy in the studio to answer your questions about kid-friendly spaces. We're talkin' furniture, fabrics, storage, and more.   Check out the favorite artist that I recommend here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtFable

Betsy sent out the call and you listened. In came a flood of great questions and podcast ideas.  I can't wait to answer them! Here is a start with Trudi's questions about trends and Rachel's inquiries about starting her very own firm.  

Besides Betsy, the designer who has been with Affordable Interior Design longest is Kelsey Surock. After 5+ years with the company and 500+ clients, she is sharing her design wisdom and revealing some big news.

Betsy is over-sharing more than usual in this podcast about baby rooms, naughty clients, and dream homes.

Dreams do come true!  The story of Betsy's most recent interior design business struggle was just featured on one of her fav podcasts.  Check it out here, and be sure to head over to Gimlet Media/eBay's "Open for Business" podcast to binge listen to all their other goodness!

Having roommate(s) or a partner does not mean you can’t get a chic look for your space. Infuse your shared home with style using Betsy's easy tips.

I love it when listeners send me links to interior design articles and posts--especially funny ones! Awesome pal and podcast producer, Katharine Heller, and I yuck it up on this extra long episode about a recent Buzzfeed article.

Thinking about hiring a designer? Betsy knows just the right questions to ask to help you find the perfect firm. 

When you are shopping, buying things that are out of scale feels awkward. Avoid that not-so-comfy feeling by staying standard with Betsy's size guidelines.

Betsy is hosting the HGTV-Addict's Interior Design Master Class in NYC on 2/5/2017. It is going to be a full day of design tips, insider info, and fun! Thinking about joining her for the event? This episode reveals some of the hot topics Betsy will be discussing during the big day. Get your tickets here: http://bit.ly/2j2bN2g

Design magazines and websites are bursting with hot new trends and tips for 2017.  But are these fads worth your dough? Betsy lets you know and tells you what's new with her this year.  

The ho-ho-holidays may be over but Betsy is still felling the X-Mas spirit. You sent her questions about toy storage, Kleenex, and curtains, and she answers them all in this episode.

In the spirit of the season, Betsy is sharing her tips for transforming your home this holiday. Whether you are wondering whether to re-upholster or what to do with wet boots, she has ideas for you!

Betsy loves shopping for throw pillows but is at a loss when it comes to selecting a sweater. You, too? Let's learn how to style ourselves on a budget with Ustyled.com's fashion guru, Catherine Cassidy.

Looking for a great gift for the interior design lover in your life? Wondering what to ask for for yourself? Betsy's list of her 10 favorite gifts is bound to inspire you and your designs.

With the holidays fast approaching, who couldn't use a little extra space to stash gifts, additional pantry items, and off-season clothes. Betsy shares her favorite storage saves and he least favorite storage frenemies. 

Betsy is hosting the holidays this year and is outfitting her guest room--on the cheap! There are lots of quick ways to make your friends and family feel welcome. Here are a few of her favorite ideas.  

This week we are talking budget for our bellies with Gabi Moskowitz of Brokeass Gourmet. She is a blogger, book author, and TV producer. Moreover, Gabi has fabulous tips for gourmet eating on a shoestring.

Books are fun to read but can be boring to look at. But Betsy has some fun ways to turn your novels into new accessories for your home. Today.com loved her ideas, and you will, too! 

While sometimes considered neutrals, when used with intention, these colors can have BIG impact. Learn how to sprinkle these tones throughout your space in this episode.

These cool colors are both the most and least popular of the entire spectrum. Find out how to best use them in your decor in this episode.

Recently Betsy was featured on one of her favorite podcasts, Entrepreneur on Fire. Hear about her journey to becoming her own boss, the lowest point in her career, and the most valuable lessons she has learned while running her interior design biz.

These colors are all about enlightenment and nature. Have a room that doesn't feel warm? Yellow can help! Feeling ill at ease in your living space? Go for green! All this and more on this episode.

Love color but not sure how to make the most of it? Betsy reveals the tricks and traps of working with red and orange in this episode. These two most intense tones in the rainbow need to be used with caution. She will tell you how!

Summer is ending. Colder weather and school days are here.  Does anyone else get a little blue this time of year? Betsy likes to make herself feel better with design.  Perking up can be as easy as picking new pillows. She will tell you how!

No matter how in love you are, moving in with a mate is never easy. Carpe diem expert and newlywed Jasmine Brett Stringer is struggling to make design choices and compromise on color with her spouse. In this episode, Betsy shares strategies for keeping everyone happy.

Living in the moment is easier said than done. As a gal who is never far from her planner and to-do lists,Betsy has lots of questions for carpe diem expert, Jasmine Brett Stringer. Change your shower curtain and change your life in this episode!

The emails have been pouring in so quickly that Betsy can't keep up. You have questions and she wants to get you answers in a timely manner. In order to squeeze in as many responses as possible, here is another Q&A dense episode.

Not sure to do with Tuscan tile? Feeling unclear about what industrial style really means? Afraid to commit to your rental? Betsy gets real this episode with advice for these dilemmas and more!  

Wanna add some spice to your kitchen and relationship? Shani Delamor of AppetiteforSeduction.com joins Betsy in the studio to talk about her favorite dinnerware, kitchen gadgets, and food fantasies.  

Marie Kondo's organizing method isn't working for me or my clients. In this episode, professional organizer AnnaBauer of SortedByAnna.com shares her strategies for take the shame out of being a little bit messy.

How should you handle your out of control mail? Is your playroom a pigsty? Anna Bauer of SortedByAnna.com has seen it all and gives her game plan for getting your space in shape.

Wonder what Betsy takes to work with her? Everything you need to get a designer look fits in her toolkit. She will take you on an item-by-item inventory of the things she loves and why she never heads to a job site without them.

Have you been naughty or nice with your designs? Betsy is back at it--sharing her list of design don'ts. Steer clear of these things if you are going for a high-end look.

Some things are just never okay. Why doesn't Betsy have any love for loveseats?  What's wrong with decals? Listen up and find out why she feels slipcovers deserve a smackdown.

Surprisingly enough, selecting furnishings made from fabrics is one of the hardest parts of my job. Learn the tricks to picking the perfect textiles every time on this episode.

Can you handle the truth?! It is important to keep it real when responding to design questions. Today Betsy softly delivers a few smackdowns to listeners who need a little tough love.  

Come shopping with Betsy as she breezes through the isles looking for "room jewelry." She's tossing pillows, blankets, artwork and more into her cart, telling you what she looks for along the way.  

Betsy wraps up her 4-part Feng Shui series with a mix of tips on topics like clearing bad energy, attracting good luck, picturing optimum success, and decreasing anxiety by changing out your light bulbs. Additionally, Betsy reveals her top secret for creating sophisticated spaces.

During Betsy's first Facebook Live event last week, there were a batch of questions she wasn't able to answer. On this week's podcast, she is getting to them as promised, discussing everything from baseball hats to awkward areas.

Want more money? No problem! Bring prosperity into your life by tweaking a few things at home.  From coins to colors, Betsy shares her favorite get-rich-quick, Feng Shui strategies in this abundant episode.

Betsy is dong her first ever live, video event on Facebook Live on Wednesday, 5/18, from 3-4pm. Get your hardest questions answered this week in real time!

Finding true love or enhancing your current relationship can be as easy as closing your toilet lid. Betsy gets super personal, revealing how she manifested the man of her dreams by rearranging her bathroom. That and many more Feng Shui relationship tips are coming your way in this love-filled episode.​

Listener emails keep the show lively. This week Betsy is getting schooled by one of her former teachers, and she is sharing some all new tips. She also reveals a new 4-part series coming atcha for the rest of May.

Listener questions are Betsy's favorite. Fan of the show, Ellie, wrote in with an assortment of interesting dilemmas hoping to stump the designer. No chance, Ellie!  From taxidermy to hall trees, answers abound in this week's episode.

Betsy saves money like it is her job--come to think of it, it is her job! She shares her tried-and-true ways to get deep discounts at all your favorite stores.

Getting sexy is not just for the bedroom. Sensuality should be alive in all rooms of your home--and even in your workplace. Stay on brand and in the mood with a few affordable design ideas.

Are you in love with your space? Whether it's your home or your office, you need to commit like it is a life partner. Studio apartments need sweetness and cooking classrooms need consideration. Make your place feel loved with tips from today's episode.

Now that the sun is out, we can actually seen the dust and grime that accumulated over the winter months. Betsy is grabbing her boyfriend (Mr. Clean) and calling up her girlfriend (Roomba) and sharing her top tidying tips with you.

Ever wonder what happened to Betsy's billionaire client? What if you're not moving out--what if someone is moving in? Still can't figure out what to do with your shoes? Betsy is going back in her archives to give you new thoughts on old topics.​

Now that you have the furniture pieces in place, how do you give them personal flair?  It's all in the styling. Add accents to your surfaces with Betsy's go-to tips.

Turns out a lot of people are moving from the city to the suburbs right now. There were so many questions on this topic that Betsy is devoting a second episode to it.

From packing to unpacking to discovering a new neighborhood, moving is stressful.  Add decorating your home to that equation, and it can be downright overwhelming. This episode is packed with tips about settling in in style.

While she didn’t start out hoping to become a boss, the business advice Betsy got as a small biz owner grew her firm from a hobby to success. She shares the tips that helped her most with fellow female entrepreneurs in this episode.

Most of the furniture on sale out there features some wood. Betsy tells you what you need to know about shopping for solid wood, particle board, stains, and more.

Bulbs, bases, and shades, oh my! Shopping for lamps can be overwhelming. Learn how to create cozy spaces with pools of light rather than interrogation rooms with harsh spots in this episode.

Pop a squat, grab a chair, and settle in for this episode. Seating determines how comfy you will be and how long your guests will want to stay in your home. Betsy gives tips about finding the perfect seating solution from sectionals to counter stools.

Small space living is trendy now with the recent construction of NYC's newest abodes known as micro apartments. But Betsy was living tiny for over a decade before it became cool. She shares ways to make small functional and stylish in this episode.

A new year means Betsy has new thoughts about the design industry and where it is going. Styles and elements she used to love no longer feel fresh. Meanwhile stores are stocking their shelves with unexpected, intriguing items. Betsy reveals looks that are passe and what she's excited for in the coming year.

BDSB fan, Audrey, has a lot of questions about making her new suburban house more cozy. When she wrote in, I couldn't help but think of "Little Shop of Horrors" and Audrey's dreams of an ideal home. Our fan's new place is far from Skid Row, and we are going to make it "Better Homes and Gardens"-ready on this week's episode.

Entryways get messy. Living rooms have to serve multiple functions. Big bedrooms are hard to maximize.  And playrooms get out of control. Betsy has cures for all the aforementioned ills in this show.

No matter the view from them, windows are dynamic pieces of art for your walls. Learn how to treat them as the lovely masterpieces they are in this week's episode.

Tis the season for festive living. From gifts for the design-lover to holiday decor in 5 minutes or less, Betsy shares her favorite ways to celebrate.

You have random design questions, and Betsy has answers. There is no topic too taboo, no query too questionable.  From home offices to renovations to shopping at Target, bring on the design dilemmas!

Do you feel your space is missing the secret sauce that would take it from fine to fabulous? There are seven elements that every magazine-ready space should have.  Rundown the checklist with Betsy and see if your home is missing something crucial.

Pooping, puking, scratching, and sniffing:  Pets are wonderful but can wreak havoc in your home. After years of designing for people with frenetic felines and dastardly dogs, Betsy has some strategies for keeping your home from becoming a zoo.

As a studio-dweller for over one-third of her life, Betsy believes a well-designed small space needs prioritizing, colorizing, and noting going too McGuyver. Her tried-and-true tiny space tips are comin’ atcha in this TMI-packed episode.

From Room and Board to HomeGoods, don’t miss the gold and avoid the crap with Betsy’s tested tips.

Our clients know what they like and what they don’t like, but they have trouble summing that up into a cohesive look. Betsy shares her 6-step process for distilling your ideas down to one distinct style.  

As the outline of your architecture, it’s important that you make your molding magnificent. Betsy will tell you what qualifies as molding, how to treat it, and what to paint it in this trim-tip packed episode.  

Be an expert docent with a dose of decent design! Great art is all around: from your baby’s pacifier to a map of your honeymoon locale. Look no further than your own home to discover gems for your walls.

Turning your home into a hotel is easier than it sounds. There are tips and tricks for getting it ready for guests and appealing to the right people. We discuss how to market your space, who you should try and attract, and how to make a statement in this episode.

Clients often complain that their homes don’t feel comfortable and that they are ashamed to have people over because their apartment sucks. Betsy has analyzed why certain homes don’t work and reveals the 5 things she discovered in this episode.

Whether you work from home, a cubicle, or a coffee shop, good design in your environment leads to efficiency. Feng shui, noise levels, and wall color have a big impact on your productivity. Get out your laptop and type some notes about improving your workspace affordably.

80% crap, 20% gold:  Ikea has some gems. But most items from the Scandinavian retailer are a disappointment.  Betsy has been there, bought that. She shares her favorite picks and the one thing that makes a trip to the nightmarish megastore worthwhile.

Second to walls, rugs are typically the biggest visual element in a room. They also get a lot of wear and tear. Choosing the perfect rug for your room and lifestyle is made easier with Betsy’s budget tips.

What’s a gal who lives for sales to do when she gets hired to design for a client with a bottomless budget? Answer: She panics and then custom creates the duplex of her dreams. Betsy shares the pros, cons, and strategies for designing when cost is no object.

Let’s talk taxidermy, velvet drapes, and sex. No topic is too taboo. Betsy tackles some tough topics on this episode.

It’s a potpourri of design questions. From bedrooms to baby rooms, Betsy shares her tips on making the most of a big space and giving a nursery a unique look.

Betsy is working on the hardest project to date:  her dream house.  Now that she’s found her forever home, she is struggling to pick just the right things.  She reveals her three-step process for selecting the perfect furnishings on this episode.

How do you know if design is just your hobby or if it is a valid career choice for you?  Our office manager, Meg, has questions about breaking into the industry, and Betsy has answers. 

Second to your bed, the couch is where you spend the most time in your home.  You want it to be stylish, inviting, and, most of all, comfy.  Betsy shares her secrets for finding the perfect sofa.

Designing for a duo can be difficult.  One person wants pink, the other green.  One is traditional, the other modern.  Keep the peace with Betsy’s tips for decorating compromise.

Curtains and blinds can be confusing.  They are all about measuring and logistics—and not very fun.  Betsyreveals what you need to know about window treatments in this episode.

It doesn’t matter how cute your design if your place is a mess.  Before you decorate, de-clutter and get organized.  Our guest, Anna Bauer of SortedByAnna.com, will tell you how.

Betsy cooks up answers to your burning kitchen questions.  From backsplashes to hardware, we talk about little details that make a big difference in this episode.

Renters face unique issues and have different questions than owners.  A temporary space may be home for longer than you think.  Make it fabulous even if it’s not permanent.

Whether you have a living/dining room combo or live in a studio apartments, open spaces can feel both freeing and a little too exposed.  Betsy shares her thoughts on creating intimate areas in open plans.

Just because you don’t own doesn’t mean you don’t want a stylish space.  Betsy gives advice on making your temporary home yours.

Call it Slumber Sophistication. Call it Hotelesque Hibernation. Betsy dishes all about boudoirs for adults, teens, and herself!

The number one thing Betsy’s clients want in a home with a cozy feel.  Whether you're in a space a short time or have been there years, use your five senses to create a space you love.

Great design starts with a great floor plan. Betsy shares her strategies for placing pieces and creating a space that flows. 

Pink for girls and blue for boys is so passé!  Designing for both genders can be fun and fresh.  There are also chic ways to contain those oh-so overwhelming toys.

Where do you store your stuff in a small space?  Betsy has simple and straight-forward ideas to streamline, stash, and control your clutter.

As a former fine art painter, Betsy has a lot of quick and easy tips for curating and framing the art on your walls.

Paint is one of the most important elements in any space.  It is also very tricky to get right.  Betsy gives strategies for selecting the perfect shade for any room.

Welcome to the show!  On this episode, Betsy shares her podcast’s mission.  Additionally, she reveals the shocking story of how she became a designer and tells you what she is up to today.