Empower the Designer
The business retreat for Interior Designers.
Taking control of your business future starts in Charleston S.C.,
November 4-6, 2025.
A truly unparalled and educational experience.
A transformative three-day business retreat tailored for leaders in the interior design and construction industries. This exclusive experience offers the opportunity to come together, connect with like-minded creatives and learn from influential experts who are shaping the future of design and business.
Attendees will engage in a thoughtfully curated schedule featuring panel discussions and strategic sessions led by industry professionals. The 2025 retreat will focus on scaling your business through smart, sustainable strategy with an emphasis on operational efficiency and tax optimization.
Keynote Speakers
Jake Arnold
AD100 designer and co-founder of The Expert, Jake Arnold is renowned for his inviting and enduring designs. His brand has one vision in mind—to evoke ease, luxury, wellness, and comfort into his clients and consumers lives through curated design. While he’s known for his impactful and livable style, his work transcends any single, definitive aesthetic. His signature aesthetic has attracted an impressive roster of celebrity clients including Katy Perry, Chrissy Teigen & John Legend, and more.
Mike Moser
Founder of M Studio Designs, a Los Angeles based boutique interior design firm whose work spans residential, commercial, and hospitality projects internationally. Mike Moser’s work has been featured in Architectural Digest and on the cover of Elle Decor focusing on bringing bespoke interiors to life. Through his client - first mentality, his passion for custom designed furnishings and vintage sourcing, Mike fuses together disparate worlds and design motifs to create something individualized for each client.
Accommodations
Our upcoming fall retreat will be set at ‘The Dewberry’ in Charleston, SC. The hotel combines modern luxury with classic Southern charm. Guests enjoy spacious rooms featuring mid-century furnishings, plush bedding, and thoughtfully curated decor. We have secured a discounted room rates. Booking details will be sent to you upon registration. Available rooms are on a first come, first basis. Retreat tickets do not include accommodations.
Accommodations are not included in the ticket price. Tickets are non-refundable but are transferrable.
Questions? Email us at info@empowerthedesigner.com
Plan Your Trip
‘The Dewberry’ in Charleston, SC, is conveniently located about 12 miles from Charleston International Airport. From the airport, you can reach the hotel by taxi, ride-share, or rental car in approximately 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route follows I-526 East to the downtown area, exiting near Meeting Street, where the hotel is situated. This straightforward drive offers easy access to the heart of Charleston’s historic district.
What is Included
Access to Top Industry Experts
Sessions Focused on Operational Efficiencies & Tax Optimization
Interactive Q&A and Engagement
Networking Opportunities with Fellow Designer
Impactful Conversations Driving Progress in the Industry
Actionable Steps for Future Growth
All Meals, Snacks & Beverages
A Selection of Beer, Wine & Cocktails
Empower the Designer Founder
Julia Nikishina
New Age Financial Consulting (NAFC) is an independent, woman-owned and operated, full-service accounting and financial management firm that exclusively serves the interior design industry.
NAFC offers a comprehensive suite of services, including accounting, payroll and benefits management, HR support/management, budgeting, cash flow planning, financial reporting, retirement and insurance planning, and tax advisory services and return preparation. Acting as a true virtual Chief Financial Officer and extension of design studios, NAFC builds long-lasting client relationships grounded in trust, integrity, and confidentiality.
‘Empower the Designer’ was created with the intention of making the interior design world more accessible, bringing leaders together and providing valuable business advice.
Insights From
Design
Experts
How much cash in the bank is actually yours?
Improving the billing and payment process
Hiring key employees for the correct positions
What to do if clients are requesting a discount.
Creating a system to track the profit and loss on projects easily
Building a passionate and goal oriented team
Creating a tailored contract package for each project
Maintaining a great and positive relationship with clients throughout the project
Solving your legal, financial, and employee issues
