How to Prepare Before Meeting an Interior Designer or Interior Decorator for a Design Consultation

You’ve decided to hire an interior designer or decorator — exciting! You’re about to turn your ideas into a beautiful, functional space that truly feels like home.

But if you’ve never worked with a designer before, you might be wondering: what should I do before our first meeting?

In my last few posts, we covered when to hire a designer, what to expect, and how long the design process takes. This post takes one step back — how to prepare so you get the most value out of your consultation.

1. Why Preparation Matters

Meeting with a designer is both creative and strategic. The more information you bring, the more tailored and productive our conversation will be.

“The more prepared you are, the more clarity you’ll walk away with — and the faster your project can move forward.”

A little prep helps us spend less time guessing and more time designing.

2. Collect Inspiration

Start by gathering images of spaces, colours, or styles you’re drawn to. Pinterest, Instagram, Houzz, and even magazine clippings are great sources.

You don’t need to define your “style” perfectly — just focus on what feels right.

Tip: note why you like each image. Is it the colour palette? The light? The sense of calm? This helps your designer understand your taste on a deeper level.

3. Take Photos and Measurements

If it’s a renovation or decorating project, snap photos of your current space from multiple angles. Include any problem areas you’d like to fix.

Rough measurements (or builder drawings if available) are a huge help. They don’t have to be perfect — they just give us a sense of scale and proportion.

4. Define Your Goals and Pain Points

Think about how you currently live in the space — and how you want to live in it.

Ask yourself:

• What’s not working right now?

• What do I want to change or improve?

• How do I want the space to feel when it’s finished?

“It’s not just about how your home looks — it’s about how it supports the way you live.”

This step helps your designer align the design to your lifestyle, not just aesthetics.

5. Outline Your Budget and Priorities

This part often makes homeowners nervous — but it shouldn’t. A budget isn’t about restriction; it’s about strategy.

Knowing your comfort zone helps your designer allocate funds wisely — where to invest, where to save, and how to achieve the look you want responsibly.

“A budget isn’t about limiting your design — it’s about guiding it.”

If you’re unsure, bring a range. Designers can help clarify what’s realistic for your goals.

(You can link to your “Spend vs. Save” blog series here.)

6. Gather Any Construction or Trade Info

If you’ve already started planning with a contractor, builder, or architect, bring any drawings, permits, or trade contact information.

This allows your designer to collaborate effectively, catch potential issues early, and help streamline communication between all parties.

7. Think About Timing and Lifestyle

Consider when you’d like your project completed and any major life events or holidays that could affect timing.

Design and construction often take longer than homeowners expect, especially in busy GTA markets where trades book months in advance.

“A realistic timeline helps you plan with confidence — and prevents the stress of rushing later.”

8. Bring Your Questions

Your first meeting is as much about getting to know your designer as it is about discussing your project.

Bring any questions you have about process, pricing, communication, or next steps.

“The consultation is a conversation — not a commitment. It’s your chance to explore ideas and see if we’re the right fit.”

9. Bonus Tip — Keep an Open Mind

Sometimes clients come in with a clear vision and leave with an even better one. Be open to ideas and trust the process. That’s where the magic happens.

“Design is a collaboration — your vision, shaped with professional insight, becomes something even better than imagined.”

Preparing for your first design meeting doesn’t have to be stressful — it’s about dreaming a little, organizing a bit, and arriving excited for what’s possible.

“A little preparation now means a smoother, more inspiring design journey ahead.”

If you’re planning a renovation or new build in Toronto, Oakville, Vaughan, Etobicoke, or anywhere in the GTA, reach out to book your design consultation. Let’s create a space that feels like home from the very first meeting.

Thanks for reading!

Lenore 🤍