Start Here: What to Expect (And How to Prepare) for Your Initial Interior Design Meeting

If you have just scheduled a call with us, or are thinking about it, you might be wondering what to expect at the first interior design meeting. While many designers call this step a “consultation,” at Teresa Cannon Design we take a slightly different approach. Our initial in-home meeting is designed to help us understand your needs, get a sense of your style, and assess the scope of the project. And it’s complimentary.

Why This First Meeting Matters

This meeting isn’t about offering quick design tips or showing up with a mood board. It’s a two-way conversation so that we can better understand the scope of your project, learn what’s working and not working in your home, and make sure we are the right fit. It’s also your chance to ask questions and see if our process feels right for you – no pressure and no obligation.

How to Prepare for the Initial In-Home Meeting

Tip #1: Think about how you use your space
Instead of focusing only on colors or furniture styles, we love to hear how your home is serving your lifestyle. Do you entertain often? Need a quiet place to work? Want to create a better flow from room to room? These insights help us design for how you live. Also, imagine how you would like to feel in each room - lively, comfortable, powerful, calm, etc. This information will give us a better understanding of what you are looking for.

Tip #2: Know Your Priorities
Even if you don’t know exactly what you want (if you did, you wouldn’t need me), it’s helpful to come with a general idea of your goals. Which rooms do you want to prioritize? Are there any items – like heirlooms or artwork – that need to be kept and/or incorporated? How much of a renovation are you looking to do, or do you want furnishings and styling only? This information will not only help us determine an appropriate budget, but also allows us to design a space that is perfect for you.

Tip #3: Be Present and Honest
Our first meeting sets the tone for the entire design experience, so we ask that all decision-makers attend and come prepared to speak openly. We’re here to listen, guide, and ask thoughtful questions you may not have considered, but that’s only possible if we’re all on the same page and truly engaged. If you are married and living together, that means both partners. Don’t  assume someone isn’t a decision maker just because they don’t care about paint colors. Real decisions often involve scope, budget, timelines, and how much disruption you are willing to live through. It’s always best when those decisions are made together to avoid mid-project changes, which can be costly. We also want both partners to be excited about the project, and this is a good opportunity to see what each has to say about their design goals for the project.

What Actually Happens During the Meeting

I will ask you to walk me through your home. While you are showing me your rooms, I will take measurements and ask questions to get the full picture. I want to hear what you like about your space and what you don’t, and how you want each room to function. After I have an idea of the scope, I’ll share a brief overview of how I work, how my fees are structured, and I’ll also explain what you can expect in each stage of the design process. You’ll receive a blank agreement (contract) to review. That’s it! Just a thoughtful conversation and a chance to get to know each other.

What comes Next

A few days later, we’ll meet again in person to walk through the design fee, estimated project investment, and a filled-in contract. If everything looks good, that’s when the real fun begins. Our Design Stage starts once the agreement is signed and the first portion of the design fee is paid. This first stage of the process begins with inspiration photos and a Style Questionnaire.

Every design project starts with getting to know each other, and that’s exactly what our first meeting is about. It’s your opportunity to share your home design goals, learn about us, and begin a partnership built on trust. I can’t wait to get started!

See if Teresa Cannon Design is the right fit for your interior design needs. Contact us here.

Not all interior designers are the same. Download our free guide, 5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Interior Designer, by clicking here.

Until next time,
Teresa