Selecting a Decorator

Selecting a decorator can be a daunting task. Nightmares ensue of designers running amock in a valued home. However, these nightmares do not have to come true. By paying a little attention to a few details the designer chosen can be a dream come true and all involved can live happily ever after.

The first step is to look at several designers. Don't settle for the first one you find (unless of course they are far better than the others that you have interviewed). Shop around; compare prices and services available by each designer. Let the designers fight over your business. Not the other way around. The client paying them the business should be their top priority. Having the decorators compete for you business will work out more favorably for the chequebook.

As with any artist a decorator has a portfolio of their work. Ask to see this. If the decorator does not have one then this is a bad omen and they may not be a good decorator to select. The pictures provided in the portfolio showcase the designers style and quality. This is will help determine if this is the decorator that should be selected. Think of their portfolio as the appetizer to the main course, which will be the work they do in your home.

Since they will be working in your home consider gathering references of past clients who have worked with them. If you select a decorator you want to make sure that the integrity of their work lives up to your desire. The following questions are good starters for asking a reference:

• Were they efficient?
• Did they dedicate themselves to the project?
• Were they as cost efficient as they were needed to be?
• Did they provide the quality of work that they promised?

These are all important questions to ask the referees. Be sure to ask them any other questions that may be on your mind as well.

The selected decorator must be willing to work with you on the style that best suites you. They should take an interest in what those in your household wish and not their own personal agenda. They should be able to envision your home décor desires and bring in new potential ideas that will enhance your home in new imaginative ways. By following these points of reference the selected designer will be the perfect fit for you.