Welcome to the Practical Decorator site.
This site is designed to help you if you are looking to make a change in your home or want to start a new career in the decorating industry.
Still have questions?
FAQ
Why should I select this as my training course?
This course was designed by The Decorating and Staging Academy. The DSA is one of the longest continuous running hands on training in the industry.
All of The Practical Decorating Training is:
Training from respected industry experts with ongoing businesses
Approved and/or endorsed by other industry leaders
Updated training materials and course structure annually to reflect trends and industry changes
How much is the course and what do I receive for my tuition?
The Practical Decorating training has a unique approach, each niche class would stand-alone as a 3 day class each with a price of $1750. But there would not be a FREE
Pad Air 2 with any of those classes. When taken together class cost is $3550 and comes with a free IPad Air 2 . Travel and hotel expenses are not included for on-location classes.
On-site classes are built around an 8-10 hour workday. Standard inclusions from The DSA are as follows:
Transportation to and from client’s home
Comprehensive manuals and workbooks
Snacks during day
Hands-on training in real homes for on-location classes
Special Forms developed by The DSA
Audit all or part of your Class to reinforce your learning for only $75 a day
One-on-one coaching with your trainer for first 30 days
Listing on The DSA Directory at no charge for the first year
Free one year listing and certification with ADE Association of Decorating Education
One year’s discounted membership to RESA (Staging class only)
Is there a payment plan for classes?
Register for a class with a $1050 deposit, Deposit must be in two weeks in advance of class for IPad Air 2 customization. The balance is due one week prior to your class. We accept all credit cards through PayPal.
Do I have to have previous decorating experience?
No Experience Necessary, just a talent for the decorating process.
Do I need a business background?
No, you do not need a business background. This training will guide you and provide the necessary steps in implementing a new business.
Business Start-up:
Start-up Costs
State and Local Requirements
Insurance
Setting up an Office
Selecting a Business and Domain Name
Blending your Business into your Lifestyle
Website, Blog, which is best for me
The Power of a Press Release
Is this a franchise and will I have to pay ongoing fees?
Once you have paid for your initial training there are no other fees required of you. You are an independent entrepreneur and the decisions you make to grow your business will be made entirely by you. You may decide to join suggested industry associations but membership is not necessary unless you see the merit of joining.
What if I already have an established decorating or staging business?
If you have already taken the leap into the world of business, then this workshop will simply complement the business knowledge that you already have. The DSA training will help you learn to treat your business like a business and not like a hobby.
Will I learn how to start a business and market it successfully?
The DSA training will arm you with an understanding of business and marketing, advertising, and self-promotion, including support when you return home.
How much money can I make?
It takes more than talent to grow a business and this training program does all it can to help you become profitable. How much you earn really depends on your work ethic and your ability to sell your services. The DSA also teaches alternative ways to make money, in conjunction with your talent, by adding new revenue streams to your business.
Considering today’s tough economy, can you really make money with decorating and/or staging?
As a Practical Decorator we have found that cable TV, economic and housing market conditions, and technology have actually impacted our business in a positive way. These conditions have triggered an increase in at-home entertaining with homeowners looking for ways to improve their homes on a budget. Interior redesign, decorating, and color consultations are all cost effective ways of transforming a space. Staging makes sense in today’s housing market as selling is much more competitive and buyers are much more demanding.
Can I do this alone?
Most alumni work alone. However, if help is needed, Carol will coach you how to work around the more difficult jobs by connecting you with peers and using temp agencies. This will allow you to get the job done without making the financial and emotional commitment to a partner or committing to a full time payroll.
Do I need to work full time?
Remember you own this business so you can establish your own schedule. The most successful Practical Decorating Alumni are those who pre-determine how many hours they will dedicate to their business.
What happens when class ends?
We at The Practical Decorator are still there for you! Watch for your Graduation Letter, with information to list on the directory page along with emblems to add to your marketing materials. Ongoing coaching and mentoring are also available in a variety of formats.
How many students are in a class?
The Redesign and Decorating classes are limited to five students. Staging class may have up to ten students. These numbers allow your Academy Instructor to maximize your learning experience.
Are The classes certified?
Absolutely, yes! Each class has been certified and endorsed by a variety of industry associations. You will be certified with the Association of Design Education (ADE) and The Decorating and Staging Academy (DSA). You will also receive discounts on listing on the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) website just for taking this class. You will be eligible to join various other industry associations such as IDS, IFDA, WCAA, and others.
I have questions not yet answered, what can I do?
Simply contact me at 1-615-645-5140 and I will be happy to answer any and all questions