202: Raili Clasen & Brooke Wagner I Party of Two

Today we welcome Raili Clasen of Raili CA Design and Brooke Wagner of Brooke Wagner Design, both full-service interior design studios based in Corona del Mar, California. In this episode, Raili and Brooke share how they became neighbors, friends, and trusted business confidants—and the support they offer each other as they both navigate the ever-changing business of design. We discuss how they overcome comparison, kick competition to the curb, and focus on paying their individual strengths forward. Raili and Brooke also share their personal perspectives on the nuances of the business of design and the three key areas in which they support each other most. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How a shared studio space sparked an organic friendship and business alliance. The power of in-person connections versus online relationships in building trust. Why vulnerability and consistency are essential to designer friendships. Insights on overcoming comparison and avoiding the social media trap. The three biggest pain points they support each other through: clients, vendors, and employees. How their monthly "Bitching & Biting" lunches help sustain business and personal growth. Advice for finding your own "design bestie" even if you're not local. Their personal definitions of success and survival in the business of design. NOTABLE QUOTES "You can't learn this in school. You have to live it, and having someone to share it with makes all the difference." "You don't need a posse—you need one or two great confidants you can trust." "There's enough business for everyone. If they picked Raili, then she was the right fit." "We cover clients, vendors, and employees—those are our top three pain points we support each other through." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Raili CA Design Website Brooke Wagner Design Website Raili Clasen on Instagram Brooke Wagner on Instagram SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings