If you’ve ever wondered how to go from hustling small paint consultations to leading a nationally recognized interior design firm, this is your episode.
In our latest episode of The Design Podcast, we sit down with Lori Paranjape, founder of Mrs. Paranjape Design and Interiors, to talk about the real, unfiltered journey of building a creative business that blends fearless design, strategic systems, and genuine client connection.
Lori’s Nashville-based firm has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Domino, and more—and for good reason. Her work is stunning, but more importantly, it’s deeply thoughtful and human.
“I don’t squeeze my clients—they sit voluntarily in my hand. If they want to leave, they should probably leave. If they stay, they’re mine.” — Lori Paranjape
Building a Business on Trust, Strategy, and Style
In this episode, Lori breaks down how she evolved from a one-woman show offering $35/hour consultations in paint stores to designing multi-million-dollar legacy estates. The secret? Systems, self-awareness, and refusing to compromise her creative integrity.
“Your first $1,000 is from work. Your first $100K is from skill. Your first million is from systems.” — Lori Paranjape
She shares why being direct but kind with clients (and her team) is a non-negotiable, and how boundaries aren’t just for protecting your energy—they’re vital for delivering your best creative work.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How to create systems that reduce client stress and eliminate confusion
Lori explains how identifying repeat client questions helped her build bulletproof internal processes that enhance the overall client experience.
The difference between being “nice” and being kind (and why it matters)
There’s a huge difference between people-pleasing and clarity. Lori walks us through how being direct actually builds trust in creative client relationships.
How to scale your design firm without losing the magic
From hiring based on personality fit to running a flat-fee billing model that supports sustainable growth, Lori drops serious business gems for creative entrepreneurs.
Why storytelling is the best marketing strategy for designers
Her Carmel, Indiana project isn’t just a house—it’s a story. Lori shares how she markets projects room by room on Instagram to build anticipation and connection.
It’s Not Just Glamour—It’s Systems and Sweat
One of the most refreshing things about this conversation is Lori’s honesty. Yes, she works on jaw-dropping properties, but she’s the first to say that none of it happened overnight.
“I started by hanging flyers in paint stores. The biggest day was when I got two consults in one day for $70. I don’t forget that.”
She keeps it real about the messiness, the mistakes, and the lessons learned along the way. If you’re in your “tummy ache era” (aka dealing with client chaos and learning the ropes), this episode will make you feel seen—and help you level up with practical advice.
Final Takeaway: You Don’t Need to Wait to Feel Legit
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re deep in the trenches of scaling your interior design business, this episode is for you. Lori’s blend of business acumen, emotional intelligence, and fearless creativity is the permission slip many of us need to trust the process, set clear boundaries, and own our value.
🎧 Listen now and discover how to blend creativity with clarity, and how to design a business that’s just as beautiful as the homes you create.
