Step-by-Step Guide: How to Hire an Interior Decorator

Finding and hiring an interior decorator in Los Angeles can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. A remodel or original design in your home or apartment is stressful. Not only do you have to live in the space, but it’s also an extension of yourself. It’s a matter that you can’t take lightly. You owe it to yourself to get the look you want as quickly and easily as you can.

For this reason, we’ve created a step-by-step guide to show you how to hire an interior decorator in Los Angeles.

How to Find and Hire an Interior Decorator:

1. Start a Checklist: First, you need to visualize what you want in each area of your home. The easiest way to do this is to create a checklist. Go through each room and highlight what you want to add or change. For example, if you’re redecorating your bedroom, go through and write what you want to happen with your décor, the changes needed, and if there’s anything you need to get. A checklist will also help you show your vision to an interior decorator in Los Angeles. You need to be compatible and communicate well for the project to be a success.

2. Know Your Style: You must be able to articulate your sense of style. Although interior decorators in Los Angeles are professionally trained creators, they don’t know your preferences. Even if you have photos on your tablet or a magazine to show him or her, they might not portray a vivid enough picture. Make sure you can also explain your preferences.

3. Research Potential Interior Decorator: Another reason you want to be clear on your style is so you can research decorators on the internet and look at their portfolios. Although most have strong style skills, they also have their own flare. For example, actress Angelina Jolie probably wouldn’t hire the same interior decorator in Los Angeles as gothic writer Anne Rice. They have different lifestyles, ages, and personal styles.

4. Get an Idea of how Much it will cost: An experienced, high-end interior decorator in Los Angeles charges more than a decorator who is just out of college. Before you hire an interior decorator, figure out a budget within your means. If you want to hire one that’s above your means, you should save up first, because you don’t want added stress.

There are two ways an interior decorator in Los Angeles will charge for their fees: one is a flat fee and the other is an hourly rate. They charge between $100-$500 per hour. Find out during your online research, or ask when you speak with the decorator, how they charge their fees and if they charge a commission on items you buy through them. You might be able to buy the items yourself, but that depends on the decorator.

5. Short List Potential Decorator: When you’re finished your research, it’s time to short list or choose an interior decorator in Los Angeles to meet with. Word of mouth is the easiest way, but you should still check their online portfolio to get a feel for their work. The best way to create your list is by how you react to their portfolio. If you’re not in love with their designs, they might not be compatible with you.

6. Prepare for Your Meeting With an Interior Decorator: Before you meet with a decorator, write out a list of questions. You’ll want to know how much they charge—and don’t be afraid to get a price and time estimate. You can also ask them for referrals from past clients. To see if they’re a fit with your style, ask if they have any suggestions. If you’re comfortable with an interior decorator, that’s a good sign that you’ll work well together.

7. Hiring an Interior Decorator: When you choose an interior decorator in Los Angeles, make sure you agree on everything for your project—and get it in writing. If you have concerns, make sure share them because you’ll be working closely together. On that note, make sure you keep an open line of communication. A decorator is there for you, so make sure you’re available when they need you—and vice versa.

Hiring a decorator is easy if you have a plan. We hope our step-by-step guide to hiring an interior decorator in Los Angeles helps you on your quest to finding the best decorator for your project.