22. Top Money Mistakes Interior Designers Make (and How to Fix Them) with Carleen Lamay

In this episode of Founders and Friends, Ronniesha Rivera sits down with Carleen Lamay, founder of C2 Accounting — a financial powerhouse serving over 60 clients, nearly half of them interior designers.Carleen shares the real story behind C2 Accounting’s growth from a part-time solo venture into a multi-member firm with a strong niche in the interior design industry. She breaks down why so many designers struggle with bookkeeping, the risks of DIY finances, and how to avoid costly mistakes with sales tax, software syncing, and categorizing expenses.Together, Ronniesha and Carleen explore:Why designers must hire financial support earlier than they thinkThe difference between bookkeepers, accountants, and CFOsHow niching down helped C2 Accounting become a trusted go-to for designersThe power of effective delegation and team leadershipC2 Accounting’s new “Monthly Foundations Review” tier for newer or smaller firmsThe financial habits that set profitable design businesses apartCarleen also shares tactical insights on multi-state sales tax, software like Design Files and MyDoma, and how designers can build confidence by understanding the numbers behind their business.This episode is a must-listen for designers ready to grow, get organized, and stop operating in the financial dark.You can find Carleen at:https://www.c2-acctg.com/https://www.instagram.com/c2accounting/Economic Nexus MapThis Episode was brought to you by Vetted by DesignIf you are looking to outsource anything in your design business check out Vetted by Design to find some amazing highly vetted pros you can trust to help you grow your business.www.vetted-bydesign.comhttps://www.instagram.com/vettedbydesign/Connect with all things Founders & Friends on our Facebook Group & InstagramFounders & Friends InstagramFounders & Friends FB group*Only for interior designers & pro's who serve the industry

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This episode was published on November 21, 2025.

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