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PICTURE THIS: 
an advice-only consultation-driven interior design business
that’s consistently booked, wildly profitable,
and gives you the flexibility you want.

Let’s make it happen.


Sounds great, but ...


You don't know where to find clients ...

You don't want to spend 8 hours a day posting on Instagram ...

You don't know if you'd make enough money ...

You [insert your other questions here] ...

 

I've got you!


THE DESIGNER'S BLUEPRINT:
Mastering a Consult-Driven Interior Design Business
 

The Designer's Blueprint is the only Interior Design Consultation-based Business Course and it will take you from dreaming to doing—from winging it to mastering it.
You’ll learn the step-by-step process to creating a thriving consultation-based interior design business that gives you the income, flexibility, and freedom you desire.

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WITH THE DESIGNER'S BLUEPRINT
BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3.

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01.

Learn the secrets of creating and marketing a consultation-based interior design business.

02.

Implement the strategies and do the work.

03.

Enjoy a well-oiled machine that keeps your calendar and your bank account full.

If you want to add advice-only design consultations to your business...
or, if you offer them but you're you're not busy or profitable...

The you are in the right place— The Blueprint has you covered. The advice-only market is booming, and there’s no reason you shouldn’t be too.
 
We’ll cover every aspect—your messaging, your mindset, your marketing everything. You’ll get super clear on what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change. From fixing cracks in your business foundation to refining your services and attracting the right clients, this course will give you the tools to build a business that fits your vision and your life.

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If you're ready to switch from full service
design (or staging) to consultations...

The Designer's Blueprint will help you set your business up for a brand new, thriving market of design clients, showing you how to attract and connect with those who prefer consultations over full-service design.

You'll learn how to stand out in your area, market your business effectively, and keep the clients coming in—key for this model. Plus, it breaks down how to understand and engage with this different client base. And that’s just the start.

If you're just starting
your interior design business...

the Designer's Blueprint is exactly what you need to start strong in this huge market and build your business the successful and stress-free way.

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STOP GUESSING.
STOP STRESSING.

START LIVING
YOUR DREAM.

Build A Solid Foundation

Every successful business has a solid foundation made up of four "Power Blocks"— in this Course, you will create yours, so you are set up for success from the very beginning.

Get client, after client, after client

A Consultation-driven business requires a higher quantity of clients, you will receive everything you need to keep people coming to you for your expertise. 

How to Stand Out

You aren't the only interior designer, or home stager in your area— you'll learn how to stand out from everyone else and make a lasting impression on those who you want to work with.

Learn What People
Actually Buy

Do you know what people actually buy? Do you know what you are actually selling? This semi-counter-intuitive secret can skyrocket your business.

Perfect Pricing
For Your Services

Pricing can be a challenge for most designers, here, you'll learn the strategies for deciding on a perfect price for your talent and expertise.

Create Packages That Clients Can't Resist

What happens when you create something some cannot say "no" to? They buy — they hire. Learn how to create something people cannot wait to have.

Craft An Unbeatable
Client Experience

They say,
"You're only as good as your last Consultation." 

So learn how to make it AMAZING.

Learn The Simple Sales Cycle™
& Have Clients Coming To You

How amazing would it be if you didn't need to chase clients?
You don't. You'll learn how to have them chasing you.

Plan For Growth,
More Profits

But wait... there's more?!
Yes, you can add income by diverting your offerings. You can design a business that suits your lifestyle.

Most Interior Design Business Courses focus on developing full service design
businesses, not advice-based consultation-driven businesses. 


Running an advice-only consultation business is a different world compared to full-service design.
You’re working with clients who have different needs, expectations, and budgets, which means your marketing
and approach have to shift too. This is a booming market, but if you want consultations to be your focus,
you need smart strategies to attract these clients, build connections, and keep the inquiries rolling in.

Nine years and 2,000 consultations
later, the Designer's Blueprint is
ready for you.

 

Since starting Happy Place Interiors in 2016, my business has been nonstop. During the pandemic, I was booked solid for Interior Design Consultations— three months and over 100 people on a waitlist— just to hear my ideas, recommendations and professional advice.

A couple years later,  made the bold decision to stop offering full-service design and focus solely on advice-based consultations—and honestly, I LOVE it! No more stress, and way more freedom and flexibility.
 

Back story: before entering interior design, I spent over 20 years working in advertising, marketing, and graphic design. I helped businesses of all shapes and sizes grow and stand out. That experience gave me invaluable insights into building a successful business and attracting the right clients.

I’ve taken 20 years of branding and marketing, added 9 years of interior design consultations and 2,000 clients, and mixed in everything I’ve learned to create
an straight path for you.


In The Designer's Blueprint: Mastering a Consult-Driven Interior Design Business course, I’ll walk you through how to build an advice-based interior design business that’s flexible, freeing and attracts clients who can’t wait to work with you— all without being tied to social media, paying for advertising or stressing about where the next client will come from.

I know what it’s like to navigate the winding road of entrepreneurship, and I’ve learned a lot valuable lessons along the way. Instead of you having to figure it all out the hard way like I did, I’m here to hand you the shortcut to success.

Let’s make your dream business a reality together!

Melanie

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Melanie Zaelich, ASID
True Colour Expert™
Owner of Happy Place Interiors

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Wow — Melanie is a fabulous interior designer! From her preparation for our meeting, to her very thorough and skilled design session with my husband and I, and followed by her patience in answering my post meeting questions via email, she excelled at everything! 

Rebecca Tholen

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YOU'LL RECEIVE:

6 Modules

27 Video Lessons
Action steps at the end of each lesson to keep you on track
Email Examples
Client Questionnaire
Client Experience Map
Multiple checklists, worksheets, including a business plan

28 Page Printable Workbook

Lifetime access to all everything.

Not to mention:
You 'll gain clarity, confidence and clients!

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Happy Place Interiors has over 100 Google 5-Star Reviews.

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Get ready to thrive in this booming market with
THE SIX STEPS TO SUCCESS

01

Build a Strong Foundation with the Four Power Blocks of Success™

You’ll learn the Four PowerBlocks™ to build a successful business including learning more than you thought about the market segments who hire advice-only designers, finding your ideal clients, how to create branding and messaging that connects, and designing a brand that builds trust. By the end of the module, you’ll have new found clarity and a solid foundation to attract the right clients and set you up for success.

02

Design Your Services and Pricing to Attract Ideal Clients

Learn how to create service packages your clients won’t be able to resist, price your services in a way that boosts your profits, and position yourself as the go-to expert in your field. Plus, you’ll nail how to communicate your value so clearly that clients can’t wait to work with you.

03

Craft An Unbeatable Client Experience 

Discover the 7 essential mindset shifts that will set you up for success in a consult-driven business. You’ll learn how to create a step-by-step process that not only keeps your clients happy but truly delights them at every stage of the journey. By focusing on building trust, exceeding expectations, and delivering an amazing experience, you’ll foster loyalty and turn clients into lifelong fans of your business.

04

Implement the Simple Sales Cycle™ and Proven Marketing Strategies

The Simple Sales Cycle™ is your secret to consistently attracting new clients without the grind of posting on Instagram ten times a day. In a consultation-based, quantity-driven business, smart marketing is the key to success. You’ll learn how to leverage low-effort strategies to boost your visibility, build credibility, and maximize your results—all while saving time and energy.

05

Streamline for Maximum Efficiency and Freedom

Set up systems that keep your business running smoothly and efficiently. You’ll learn how to organize client communication and project management tools, streamline workflows, and optimize your processes to boost profits while reducing stress.

Plan for Future Growth and Additional Income

06

Learn how to spot opportunities to grow and expand your offerings so you can attract more clients and boost your income. You’ll create a solid plan to scale your business in a way that’s sustainable, keeping things profitable while staying flexible enough to adapt as you grow.

Get 100-250+ Clients per year easily and stress-free.

Running a consultation-based design business is awesome—
the hardest part for most designers is is getting enough clients to make it work well.


You may need 100 to 250 local clients a year to keep things profitable, and that can feel overwhelming.

But don’t sweat it! This is where The Designer’s Blueprint shines!
The Course will break it all down for you with easy, actionable steps to help you attract
the right clients without the stress. From smart marketing moves to branding your company and the essential mindset to fully embrace, you’ll have everything you need to build a business that thrives year after year.
 

The course pays for itself in one or two consultations,
but the benefits will last for years to come.


ENROLL IN
THE DESIGNER'S BLUEPRINT:
Mastering a Consult-Driven Interior Design Business​
TODAY
 


100%
MONEY-BACK
GUARANTEE

I fully believe The Designer's Blueprint: Mastering the Consultation-Driven Interior Design Business will teach you the step-by-step process to creating a thriving consultation-based interior design business that gives you the income, flexibility, and freedom you deserve, but I also want you to feel confident in your decision to invest.
 

That’s why I offer a Money-Back Guarantee.
 

Once you enroll, you’ll have 48 hours to jump in to the full course and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
If you feel it’s not what you expected, simply reach out within the review period, and I'll issue a full refund.

 

No hard feelings, no hassle—just a straightforward way to ensure you feel great about your investment. 
I'm here to help you succeed, and your satisfaction is my top priority.

 

Let’s build your dream business together!


ARE YOU IN?

Ready to invest in yourself, your dreams and build a design business that’s bursting with flexibility, creativity and profits?


You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—I’ve got you!
Imagine working with clients you love, setting your schedule, and letting your creativity flow
while growing a business that feels right from the start. Whether you're just kicking things off
or shifting gears, you can skip the overwhelm and dive straight into what lights you up—
and makes you money.

I've worked with over 2,000 homeowners and can help you
have the same kind of success as I have enjoyed—only with an easier path to get there.

Together, we’ll make it happen!

"When interior designers succeed from the very beginning—
focusing on their talent and clients, rather than a stressful business—
we touch more lives and spread more happiness through
the transformative power of design."


— Melanie Zaelich

Listen to Melanie
on LuAnn Niagara's
A Well-Designed Business Podcast

Melanie Zaelich sat down with LuAnn Nigara on A Well-Designed Business Podcast, and it’s a must-listen! She opens up about why she left full-service design behind to go all-in on her consultation-based business model—and let’s just say, it’s been a total life transformation.

She shares some of her best tips and strategies that have made this approach such a game-changer for her.
 

"Your strategies are very valuable. I love them."
— LuAnn Nigara

 

But honestly, this episode is just the tip of the iceberg—her business course, The Designer’s Blueprint, takes it to a whole other level.

Give it a listen—and get inspired!

DON'T REINVENT THE WHEEL.
GET THE BLUEPRINT TO A WELL-OILED MACHINE.

Imagine feeling like this:

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Dream clients come to you,
even if you have a small Instagram following or no following at all.

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No more winging it—everything feels organized and under control.

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You feel good knowing you’re doing things the profitable way.

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You stand out naturally, even in a town full of designers.

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You know exactly what your clients want and how to wow them.

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Making enough money isn’t a question—it’s a given.

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You’ve got a clear idea of how many clients you need to hit your financial goals.

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You’re using the right tools and programs that make your work easier.

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You trust that you’ve got what it takes to totally crush this.

FAQ

1.  Will The Designer's Blueprint teach me how to legally set up a business, business status (LLC, SCORP)?
      No. The Blueprint is focused on how to run your business, but does not cover taxes, legal matters and such.

2.  How much time do I need to dedicate to the course each week, and is it self-paced?   
      Yes, it is a self-paced course. Most people will spend a few hours a week on it. Some Modules will take longer
       than others to implement the strategies. 

3.  Does this course include templates or resources I can immediately use in my business?         
     
Yes. You will receive email examples, a client questionnaire and other resources that you can immediately start using.

4.  Will this Course teach me how to design?              
     No
. This Course will not teach you how to be a designer. You bring your talent and expertise, the Course will teach
     you how to market yourself to the right people the right way yo always have a booked calendar.

5
.  What kind of support will I receive during the course?                 
     If you ever have questions about how the Course is set up, or if you are having a hard time understanding a concept, you can email Melanie at anytime. If you want personalized support, feedback and guidance from Melanie, you can either sign up for the VIP Access or schedule a Consultation with her at anytime.

6.  What makes this course unique compared to other interior design business courses?                      
     Most Interior Design Business Courses focus on Full Service Interior Design or How to be a Designer.  This course focuses on a Consultation-based business which has a different type of consumer, different marketing techniques and different goals.
 

6.  Will I learn how to handle difficult clients or consultations that don’t go as planned?                      
     You will learn how to clearly set expectations to help prevent miscommunications or unmet needs.
 

8.  Do I need to have prior experience with consultations to benefit from this course?                     
     You not need prior Consultation experience to benefit from this Course. However, you do need some level
 of experience or talent in the Interior Design field as this Course is not about teaching you how to be a Designer. You are responsible for providing quality advice and recommendations to your clients.
 

9.  How much initial investment is required to implement the consultation-driven model?                     
     In addition to the cost of the Course, you'll likely be spending $200-600 per year on different software systems that will set you up for success. You may already have some of these systems, or you may replace your existing systems with new ones. You also may be inspired to get more or different Consultations tools. The choice is yours of how much you want to invest. Everything recommended is highly valuable.

10.  How does this model fit with virtual or online consultations, and is that covered?                         
       This Course is designed specifically for in-person, local-to-you Consultations. However, the framework, PowerBlocks™ remains the same for online Consultations. If, however, you are seeking to only conduct online Consults and out of your local area, some additional marketing strategies will be required.

11.
 I am not based in the US, will this Course still help my business?
      Yes! This principles and steps of this Course are based on human truths and common technology. However, you may need to put a slightly different spin on some of it for cultural differences. I believe this will be obvious to you, if not, I'll be happy to assist.

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ENROLL IN
THE DESIGNER'S BLUEPRINT:
Mastering a Consult-Driven Interior Design Business​
TODAY

 

The course pays for itself in one or two consultations,
but the benefits will last for years to come.

Is a consultation-based interior design business the next right step in your life? 

Take the quiz and find out!

This quick and insightful quiz will help you determine
whether this flexible and client-focused approach
is the right fit for you.

  • Discover your strengths as a designer.

  • Evaluate your business preferences and communication style.

  • Your compatibility with a consultation-based business model.

  • Key areas to focus on if you're considering this approach.

  • Uncover whether empowering clients through actionable guidance is your calling.

  • Insight into whether this dynamic, client-focused model matches your skill set and ambitions.

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The Quiz is in your email
(check spam too)

If you have any other questions about
The Designer's Blueprint, I'm here to answer you.

I am here for your success! I would be more than happy to talk with you about the Blueprint and whether or not it's right you.

Schedule a quick 15 minute phone call to get your questions answered: Contact me.

 

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BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.
YOU'LL BE HAPPY YOU DID.

Book your appointment here or send an email below. 

Success! Message received. Please add Melanie@happyplaceinteriors.com to your contacts. 

Interior Design & Color Consulting
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Happy Place Interiors, Inc.
Minneapolis, MN 55417

melanie@happyplaceinteriors.com
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