125: Ali Faulkner | Detailed Processes and Documentation for the WIN

Today we welcome Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors, a full-service design studio based in Costa Mesa, California. In this episode, Ali shares how her hospitality background instilled a high level of service when developing her design business model and her perspective on the client experience. We also discuss Ali's emphasis on detailed documentation to translate the design journey to clients, contractors, and artisans and its impact on building trust and referrals.  Ali's systems and documentation are top-notch from the first interaction with the client to the very end. Everyone involved is always aware of the next step of the process and is prepared to move forward, eliminating room for confusion, miscommunication, or errors. I hope this conversation helps spark a new level of organization and an improved client journey for your design business! Show Highlights: The AEF Interiors business model The relatability of hospitality and design Creating a client journey and being steps ahead of the client Having a clear and beneficial documentation process The AEF Interiors spec guides and why they are a differentiator for their business What installation day looks like Why you have to educate clients from the beginning Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Ali's Website: https://aef-interiors.com  Ali's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aefinteriors/  Sponsor Links: https://www.pirch.com https://designmanager.com Register for Design Biz Retreat: https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/design-biz-retreat/ Member Vault: https://designbizsurvivalguide.vipmembervault.com *** Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com.