In this episode, I sit down with Shelley Boyd, founder of Boyd Blue, to discuss her remarkable 26-year journey building a wholesale furniture and design business. From starting in 1999 to navigating through economic downturns and a pandemic, Shelley shares candid insights about supplier relationships, quality craftsmanship, and the importance of authenticity in business. Her story offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a sustainable business in the design industry.
Hope you enjoy the episode
Beth xx
Episode Highlights:
• Shelley's journey from starting Boyd Blue in 1999 to building a thriving business over 26 years
• How she sources products from Indonesia, the Philippines, and India, focusing on family-owned factories
• Her approach to building long-term relationships with suppliers and manufacturers
• The challenges of working with her husband in the business and their decision to part ways professionally
• Her recent collaboration with designer Kate Nixon and the process of developing new products
• How she navigated the business through COVID and other economic challenges
• Her perspective on markup and pricing for designers
Key Takeaways:
• Relationships are the foundation of a sustainable business—with suppliers, clients, and team members
• Quality and craftsmanship create timeless products that transcend trends
• Resilience is essential for long-term business success
• Authenticity in business practices builds trust and loyalty
• Sometimes the hardest business decisions (like parting ways with her husband professionally) lead to the best outcomes
• Taking time away from your business can provide valuable perspective and renewed energy
Practical Insights:
• How to build relationships with international suppliers and manufacturers
• The importance of transparency in pricing and markup
• Strategies for navigating business through economic downturns
• The value of focusing on quality over quantity
• How to maintain authenticity while growing a business
• The benefits of taking a sabbatical to reset and gain perspective
Perfect For:
• Interior designers looking to build sustainable supplier relationships
• Business owners considering working with family members
• Design professionals interested in product development and collaboration
• Entrepreneurs navigating challenging business periods
• Anyone interested in the wholesale side of the design industry
Quote from Episode:
"I've always really prided myself on never compromising, just selling quality. I like to work with true crafts people." - Shelley Boyd
Connect with our guest:
Shelley Boyd - Boyd Blue @boydblue
Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.
1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox
2. Start a HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.
I only have 8 spots available every month.
3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.
4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio
5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.
