What They’re Saying
“Attending the Empower the Designer event last fall was a game-changer for Casual Elegance Designs. The ideas shared were incredibly practical and easy to put into practice—I saw the impact as soon as I got back to the office.
It was also such a gift to connect with others in the design community—to share experiences, challenges, and wins. One of the most helpful aspects was having the Studio Designer home office team there in person. We were able to troubleshoot small issues on the spot, learn tips and tricks directly from the source, and even offer feedback on how the software could better support our workflow.
This event didn’t just inspire me—it made Casual Elegance Designs stronger, both financially and operationally. I left with clarity, tools, and a deeper understanding of how to run my business more efficiently. I can’t recommend it enough.”
“It was so refreshing to spend a few days surrounded by creative minds who truly understand the unique challenges and triumphs of running a design business. The honest, open conversations about operations, strategy, and growth were not only inspiring but incredibly validating. Hearing others share their wins and struggles reminded me that we’re all navigating similar paths—and we don’t have to do it alone. Events like this are invaluable. We need more spaces in our industry where collaboration, transparency, and community take center stage.”
“As the COO of Tom Stringer Design Partners, I found Empower the Designer to be an incredibly valuable experience from both an operational and strategic standpoint. Many industry events focus heavily on the creative side of design, but this seminar addressed the often-overlooked business infrastructure required to successfully scale and sustain a high-performing firm.
The content around systems, project management, financial visibility, team structure, and operational efficiency was especially impactful. The presenters spoke candidly about the real challenges design firms face as they grow, and the discussions provided practical frameworks that could be implemented immediately within our organization.
I also appreciated the level of professionalism and transparency among the attendees. It created an environment where meaningful conversations could happen around leadership, profitability, client experience, and internal processes — topics that are critical to the long-term health of a firm but not always openly discussed.
I left with actionable ideas, a stronger perspective on operational leadership within the design industry, and several strategies that will positively influence how our firm continues to grow and evolve. I would highly recommend Empower the Designer to leadership teams looking to strengthen the business side of their design practice.
- Daniel Paul
Chief Operating Officer
Tom Stringer Design Partner”
“Empower the Designer exceeded every expectation I had—and then some. I’ve attended several retreats over my 20-year design career, including those marketed specifically to established professionals, but none have felt as thoughtfully tailored to the unique challenges and goals of luxury interior designers. I walked away with more clarity, strategy, and actionable tools than I’ve gained in years of private coaching, seminars, or industry events. I wholeheartedly recommend this retreat to any designer looking to elevate their business and mindset”
“Attending Empower The Designer in 2025 was a worthwhile investment in my professional growth. The programming was exceptionally thorough, with sessions that address the real business drivers of our industry—finance, project and client management, operational efficiency, and strategic growth. The speakers delivered engaging presentations that balanced creativity with practical, actionable guidance. The event maintained an enjoyable and energizing atmosphere, making it both productive and genuinely fun. I left with valuable knowledge, new connections, and new ideas to put forth in my work.
- Katie Guzinski
Executive Director, Principal
Marguerite Rodgers Interior Design”
