SEPTEMBER 9-10TH, 2024
VEA RESORT - NEWPORT BEACH, CA
*** THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT ***
Join us this September for a two-day gathering of design visionaries and industry experts where we’ll demonstrate the true meaning of COMMUNITY and how it is re-defining the way interior design professionals are building stronger and more profitable businesses.
This year we’ll feature our “CIRLCE OF MENTORS”, a select group of experienced design professionals, to deliver valuable presentations that will empower you to expand your business model. Design Biz Retreat has been specifically developed to deliver valuable business strategies to elevate your business in an environment that promotes vision, trust, and support.
We believe that a strong mind and spirit is vital to a growing business and wellness will be a re-occuring theme throughout RETREAT. Our sunrise yoga is back along with a few other surprises. This time together is as much about personal development as it is about business development.
We can’t wait to see you!
What they’re saying…
Retreat Itinerary & Pricing
*** THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT ***
Ticket Price: $2400.00
Note: Because of the interactive format of this event, Design Biz Retreat is limited to 24 attendees so we encourage you to secure your spot early as this event will sell out.
Your retreat registration includes:
Two full days of informative and inspiring lectures from Industry Experts, Break Out Sessions, Daily Breakfast and Networking Lunch.
Hotel Accommodations are not included in your registration. A group rate has been secured for a limited number of rooms on a first come first served basis. A reservation link will be sent to you with your registration confirmation.
To register click the “RESERVE NOW” button below which will open an eail to me. Submit your Name, Company Name, Address, and Contact Number. A quickbooks invoice will be sent via a secure link which you can pay by credit card or ACH. Seats will be filled in the order in which requests and full payment is received.
Tickets are non-refundable. However, tickets are transferrable. All arrangements are the responsibility of the ticket holder and transferee.
"featured speakers"
CHECK OUT our 2024 CIRCLE of mentors!
Max HUMPHREY & RAILI clasen
Brand Collabs + Publishing + Visibility
Presented by: Daniel House Club
In this collaborative presentation Max & Raili will share their strategy to developing meaningful brand partnerships that compliment their business ethos, boost their visibility, and attract press. They will also walk us through the process of courting publishers and creating their own individual design chronicles from concept and photography to copy and editing. While brand partnerships may look easy from an outsider’s perspective, Max & Raili are pulling back the curtain to share the business behind the collaborations.
RONA GRAF
Project Onboarding + Budget Development
Presented by: BRIZO and PIPELINE
Rona is the owner and principal designer of Grace Blu Interior Design and a charter attendee of Design Biz Retreat – she’s been to every single one. This year we’re taking Rona from the audience to the stage to share her tried and true Project Onboarding Process. From discovery call and consultation to the client questionnaire and budget matrix. This step by step presentation will detail her process of qualifying clients, determining an investment threshold, and setting realistic expectations all before the contract is even signed.
JOHN MCCLAIN
Your Design Services Agreement
In this valuable and informative presentation John will reveal the top 10 clauses in his design contract that he can’t do business without. John learned the hard way that a hand shake and a credit card is not a design agreement. That experience taught John the value of having a detailed and comprehensive contract and in true “community over competition” fashion John is sharing his lessons learned with us. From revisions and site visits to payment terms and final sales, this lesson in expectations will help you refine your contract and protect your business.
KATE LESTER
E-Commerce + Brick & Mortar
Presented by: DESIGN MANAGER
Every designer’s dream is to have a beautiful storefront that shows off their style and taste but what does the launch of a brick & mortar retail boutique really look like behind the scenes and how does retail and e-commerce play a role in the growth of a design business? Kate Lester is the rock star behind Kate Lester Interiors and KL Home and she’ll share the pros and cons of retail and the hustle required to balance design clients, contractors, employees, and store hours all in the name of design. If you know Kate, you know that she’s bringing it straight and unfiltered – and that is why we love her!
Design build panel
Denise Morrison, Chris Brandon, and
Andrew Patterson
Hear first hand how the principals of Morrison Interiors, Brandon Architects, and Patterson Custom Homes collaborate to design and execute some of the most notable homes in Orange County and beyond. You’ll learn the architect’s role and their influence on the selection of the designer and builder. You’ll hear builder expectations and what it truly takes to execute the construction of a high end custom home. You’ll also learn the critical role that designer produced plans, illustrations, and documentation play in the successful implementation of the collective design vision.
THOMAS LAVIN
The Journey, Influences, and Mentorship
Thomas Lavin founded his namesake showroom in 2000 and has become a leader in bringing an international range of exclusive high-end home furnishings to the SoCal Market. Thomas is a trendsetter and a true leader in the industry and he has been inspired by many mentors along the way. In this candid fireside style chat, Thomas will share his journey, his influences, and the many mentors who have supported him over the years.