Shows
The Process Driven Designer70: Show Garden Update 3- NWFGS 2025The Northwest Flower and Garden Show is complete. Here are my post show thoughts and dont' forget to sign up for the free webinar on how I designed this garden with insights to how you can create clarity of vision for your and your clients' gardens.All about the Gathering Garden https://kismetdesignco.com/nwfgs/Suggested episodes:69: Show Garden Update 267: Show Garden Update NWFGS 2025 Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco& @ProcessDrivenDesigner.Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notifie...2025-03-0511 minThe Process Driven Designer69: Show Garden Update 2 NWFGS 2025Prebuilding and collecting all the elements leading up to the show to make sure the build goes smoothly. Just like life-size legos.Check out the webpage:https://kismetdesignco.com/nwfgs/Suggested episodes:67:Show Garden Update NWFGS 202525:The Creation of a Show Garden Please be sure tosubscribe and follow@kismetdesignco&@ProcessDrivenDesigner.Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars,courses, and other offeringshttps://kismetdesignco.com/classes/ 2025-02-0710 minThe Process Driven Designer68: Tracking and MetricsMetrics and tracking are super important especially when establishing goals for next year. If you want to dive deeper join me for my next class January 8th 2025 - The Yearly Planning Workshop
Sign up here:
https://kismetdesignco.com/classes/the-designer-shop/
Discount Code: CAMPFIRE
Suggested episodes:
52: Money Mindset
14: Year-End Planning
8: Workflow- how to stay on track
6: Work-life Balance
5: Efficiency and Profitability
4: Building a Business Through Referrals
Please be sure to su...2024-12-1208 minThe Process Driven Designer67: Show Garden Update NWFGS 2025I am in the middle of designing and planning a display garden at the Northwest Flower and Garden Festival for 2025. Join me in the first update on progress and stay tuned for more.
Suggested episodes:
25: The Creation of a Show Garden
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco
& @ProcessDrivenDesigner.
Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars, courses, and other offerings https://kismetdesignco.com/classes/
2024-10-3108 minThe Process Driven Designer66: MommypreneurshipBeing a business owner and a parent is no joke. Juggling being a busy sports mom and entrepreneurship has its struggles and triumphs.
Suggested episodes:
60: Time Allocation and Prioritizing for Impact
59: The Power of a Good To-Do List
58: Finding Balance and Being Present
57: Balancing
Seasons, Business, and Life with Cindy Funes
56: Vision for a Better Life
51: Balancing New Opportunities and Growing with Sara Meier
32: Pros and Cons to the at Home Office Space
30: Teamwork
26: Living Seasonally and...2024-10-0213 minThe Process Driven Designer65: Is My Client Really a Stripper?Well, you never know... I have met clients with some super interesting professions. Today, rather than sharing wisdom or ideas to make your business run smoothly or inspire new ideas, I share a funny story about awkward client interactions.
Share your stories with me! kryssie@kismetdesignco.com
@ProcessDrivenDesigner.
Suggested episodes:
54: Growing Knowledge and Being Curious
48: My Story
45: Latest Updates and Passions
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco
& @ProcessDrivenDesigner.
Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of up...2024-09-2308 minThe Process Driven Designer64: The Power of PresentationHow you present your designs is critical to your client understanding the design and enjoying the design process.
Upcoming Mini-Class on Lighting Design
Sign Up Here! Podcast listeners can use code podcast24 for a discount!
Suggested episodes:
27: Confidence and Leading the Design Process
15: Virtual Meetings and Presentations
12: Design Presentation
2: Communication of Design
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco
& @ProcessDrivenDesigner.
Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars, courses, and other...2024-08-1407 minThe Process Driven Designer63: Marketing Tactics with Mardi DoverMarketing tactics and mindsets for landscape designers.
Best place to reach Mardi
https://www.mardidover.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mardi_dover/
Coupon code! MAYBAY50 gets you $50 off your purchase of the marketing masterclass.
https://www.mardidover.com/classes
Suggested episodes:
44: Nailing your Niche with Rebecca West
41: Maintaining
Engagement after Installation with Mardi Dover
36: Finding New Clients
28: The Value of Networking
27: Confidence and Leading the Design Process
20: Building Brand
16: Collaboration Between Installer and Designer with Kevin Monohan
...2024-07-2953 minThe Process Driven Designer62: Finding FocusThe ability to focus on the task at hand and to follow the framework and processes that you have designed is the magic formula for efficiency. Focused work can 2x your available time. I share my 4 key steps to focused work time.
Suggested episodes:
61: Creating Impact
60: Time Allocation and Prioritizing for Impact
59: The Power of a Good To-Do List
58: Finding Balance and Being Present
56: Vision for a Better Life
8: Workflow- how to stay on track
5: Efficiency and Profitability
2024-07-1807 minThe Process Driven Designer61: Creating ImpactAs both a designer and a small business owner your interactions create an impact on those around you.
As a business owner, I leave an impact beyond my clients and beyond just the people I work with. How do you leave impact and what does your impact look like?
Class sign-up:
The Landscape Expo Webinar on Site Analysis
Designing with Grades Class- Kismet Design
Suggested episodes:
60: Time Allocation and Prioritizing for Impact
56: Vision for a Better Life
50: Mental Health and Growth- Kelley Oklesson
49: Kind...2024-06-1207 minThe Process Driven Designer60: Time Allocation and Prioritizing for ImpactSometimes it is the smallest tasks that have the greatest impact on your business, your time, and your mental clarity. Let's talk about how to prioritize and dedicate your precious focus on the best and most impactful tasks.
Links:
Eisenhower Matrix
The Landscape Expo Webinar on Site Analysis
Designing with Grades Class
Suggested episodes:
59: The Power of a Good To-Do List
58: Finding Balance and Being Present
56: Vision for a Better Life
45: Latest Updates and Passions
26: Living...2024-06-0412 minThe Process Driven Designer59: The Power of a Good To Do ListI recently had a few great conversations with colleagues on keeping track of clients and workflow. The key is a great to do list!
www.Asana.com
Suggested episodes:
58: Finding Balance and Being Present
57: Balancing Seasons, Business, and Life with Cindy Funes
8: Workflow- how to stay on track
7: Collaborating with a Remote Team
6: Work-life Balance
5: Efficiency and Profitability
2: Communication of Design
Please be sure to subscribe a...2024-04-1811 minThe Process Driven Designer58: Finding Balance and Being PresentBalance can be tricky and it doesn't look the same for everyone. Balance is found in discipline and in looking at the big picture rather than the finite details.
Contracts class: Sign up HERE!
Suggested episodes:
57: Balancing Seasons, Business,
and Life with Cindy Funes
45: Latest Updates and Passions
26: Living Seasonally and Designing a Business Seasonally
8: Workflow- how to stay on track
6: Work-life Balance
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco
& @ProcessDrivenDesigner.
Please al...2024-04-1208 minThe Process Driven Designer57: Balancing Seasons, Business, and Life with Cindy FunesCindy Funes of Garden Revelry joins me to talk about her business systems and how she balances the seasonality of the container business. Be sure to check out her work and tune into her upcoming course offerings!
gardenrevelry.com
@gardenrevelry
Suggested episodes:
54: Growing Knowledge and Being Curious
53: Hiring the Right Team for Growth
51: Balancing New Opportunities and Growing with Sara Meier
45: Latest Updates and Passions
44: Nailing your Niche with Rebecca West
30: Teamwork
26: Living Seasonally and Designing a Business Seasonally2024-04-051h 24The Process Driven Designer56: Vision for a Better LifeIt is likely that when you started your business you had a vision for something bigger, something greater, something more fulfilling than what you were doing at the time. Is your business fulfilling that vision?
Suggested episodes:
55: Graphics skills to Communicate Design Vision with Lisa Nunamaker
54: Growing Knowledge and Being Curious
50: Mental Health and Growth- Kelley Oklesson
47: Starting Energy
45: Latest Updates and Passions
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
29: Switching Careers and Finding Transferable Skills with
Courtney Olander
26: Living Seasonally...2024-03-2810 minThe Process Driven Designer55: Graphics Skills to Communicate Design Vision with Lisa NunamakerLisa Nunamaker of Paper Garden Workshop joins me once again,
this time to discuss her transition full time to Paper Garden Workshop and how
she teaches graphics to empower people with the skills to give them confidence to
support themselves and follow their dreams.
‘When you feel comfortable drawing your vision then you feel
comfortable saying I can actually do this’- Lisa
'Its ok to grow slowly'. Lisa
https://www.papergardenworkshop.com/
Previous episodes with Lisa:
34: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 2 Lisa Nunamaker
33: Empowering...2024-03-071h 04The Process Driven Designer54: Growing Knowledge and Being CuriousI think one of the biggest factors in knowledge growth is curiosity. Curiosity helps motivate me to acquire new knowledge and to ask questions. Here are some of my favorite people to seek new ideas and knowledge from.
Suggested episodes:
45: Latest Updates and Passions
44: Nailing your Niche with Rebecca West
41: Maintaining Engagement after Installation with Mardi Dover
38: The Power of Environment- Learning Through Osmosis
37: The Power of Education and Where it Falls Short
34: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 2 Lisa Nunamaker
33: Empowering & Educating Desig...2024-02-2308 minThe Process Driven Designer53: Hiring the Right Team for GrowthFinding the right people to help you in your business mission will create growth pathways far beyond what you can do alone.
To sign up for the live event on February 29th on Contracts, Billing, and Estimating go here! Use code podcast24 for a discount!
Suggested episodes:
40: What’s in a Contract?
30: Teamwork
20: Building Brand
13: Delivering on Expectations
7: Collaborating with a Remote Team
5: Efficiency and Profitability
4: Building a Business Through Referrals
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignc...2024-02-1511 minThe Process Driven Designer52: Money MindsetDeveloping a good money mindset is a big part of growing as an entrepreneur and designer. Understanding costs, and billables, and being able to discuss it all confidently is part of the growing up process of your business and you as a professional.
To sign up for the live event on February 29th on Contracts, Billing, and Estimating go here! Use code podcast24 for a discount!
Suggested episodes:
48: My Story
45: Latest Updates and Passions
43: Updating and Revising your Contracts with Naomi Goodman
40: What’s in a Contract?
...2024-02-1018 minThe Process Driven Designer51: Balancing New Opportunities and Growing with Sara MeierSara Meier of GreenThumb SAM joins me once again! We discuss setting goals for growth, finding inspiration, and setting boundaries and rules to stay on track. Listen to her previous episode #24 here.
Follow Sara @GreenThumbSAM and check out the list of people and organizations inspiring her below.
Links:
Apld
Predeaux Design
Pangea Express
Topophyla
Kanvas Design
Lusan Landscaping
Cascade Gardens
Fredrickson Landscape
Whole Gardens NW
Banyon TreeDesign
Botanical Living
Beewise Gardens2024-02-0142 minThe Process Driven Designer50: Mental Health and Growth- Kelley Oklesson (part 2)Part 2 of my conversation with Kelley Oklesson, owner of Groundsmith Collective dives into growing as a business owner and designer and taking charge of mental health. She shares her struggles and how she supports emerging professionals and becomes the bridge for them to take their desires and ideas into reality and craft a career that will support them and the growing landscape design community. She strives to leave a positive mark on the profession through mentorship and harnessing her power of kindness and empathy.
References from the episode:
Podcasts:
Design...2024-01-2427 minThe Process Driven Designer49: Kindness is a Super Power- with Kelley Oklesson (part 1)Kelley Oklesson the owner of Groundsmith Collective and I discuss the power of mentorship, and how she leads her team and mentors upcoming design professionals with kindness, empathy, and positivity. She unlocked the secret to combatting the loneliness of entrepreneurship by becoming the mentor we all needed when we were starting out. Tune back into part 2 as we dive into mental health, finding inspiration, and leaving a positive mark on the profession.
Quotes
"young people are the antidote to hopelessness...they
believe the world is a changeable place."
Jason Reynolds, Author...2024-01-1739 minThe Process Driven Designer48: My StoryEveryone starts as a beginner at some point. Here I share with you my path to where I am today, the experiences I got along the way, and how I started my design business.
Suggested episodes:
45: Latest Updates and Passions
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
38: The Power of Environment- Learning Through Osmosis
37: The Power of Education and Where it Falls Short
36: Finding New Clients
30: Teamwork
29: Switching Careers and Finding Transferable Skills with
Courtney Olander
28: The Value of Networking
2024-01-1013 minThe Process Driven Designer47: Starting EnergyThe new year brings with it some magical energy of new beginnings and fresh starts. What are you going to do with that energy? I've got some big plans with mine!
Want the latest class or download? Use code podcast24 for 10% off!
Suggested episodes:
45: Latest Updates and Passions
44: Nailing your Niche with Rebecca West
43: Updating and Revising your Contracts with Naomi Goodman
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
26: Living Seasonally and Designing a Business Seasonally
14: Year-End...2024-01-0409 minThe Process Driven Designer46: Outdoor Lighting with Structure and TreeJoin me in talking to Paul Balint the owner of Structure and Tree Outdoor Lighting. We discuss tips and tricks for better lighting design and installation in addition to some of our favorite fixures.
Find out more about Structure and Tree on their website or on social @Structure_and_Tree
Suggested episodes:
35: Designing Experiences
28: The Value of Networking
3: Inspiration and Passion- the Design Process
2: Communication of Design
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco.
Please also sign up for my n...2023-12-0737 minThe Process Driven Designer45: Latest Updates and PassionsI have some really exciting new offers as well as some gratitude to share with all of my fellow designers.
Check out the Designer Shop for offerings and use the code podcast23 for a discount.
Remember to tag @theprocessdrivendesigner on your Instagram post 'When I was a newbie'
Suggested episodes:
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
34: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 2 Lisa Nunamaker
33: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 1 Lisa Nunamaker
29: Switching Careers and Finding Transferable Skills with
Courtney Olander
2023-11-0709 minThe Process Driven Designer44: Nailing your Niche with Rebecca WestRebecca West is an Interior Designer, Author, and Business Coach. She joins me to discuss how designers regardless of industry can really hone in and best communicate to their clients what their niche and services are.
find out more and follow Rebecca at https://seriouslyhappy.com/about/
Get the Nail Your Niche Handout Here!
Suggested episodes:
42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your Work
40: What’s in a Contract?
36: Finding New Clients
20: Building Brand
9: Defining your Ideal Client...2023-10-2049 minThe Process Driven Designer43: Updating and Revising your Contracts with Naomi GoodmanContracts are an integral part of our businesses. It is not only essential to have but also to review and revise on a regular basis. Naomi Goodman of Firecracker recently went through the process of updating her contracts and shares the approach she took and the key elements she advises all designers to look at for their contracts.
Find out more about Naomi here: http://www.firecrackerdesignstudio.com/http://www.firecrackerdesignstudio.com/ and follow her on social @firecrackerdesignstudio
Suggested episodes:
40: What’s in a Contract?
28: Th...2023-10-0558 minThe Process Driven Designer42: Finding Passion and Purpose in Your WorkWhat is it that you love the most about what you do? For me, the creation and problem-solving really excite me, but I find the most joy in the outcome. The feedback from a client that they love spending time in their garden is what feels the best. My latest project that has me super excited is the Designer Shop on the courses page of my website where I have downloadable worksheets, webinars, and other resources.
Visit the Designer Shop Use discount code podcast23 for $5 off your first purchase
Suggested episodes:
2023-09-2710 minThe Process Driven Designer41: Maintaining Engagement after Installation with Mardi DoverMaintaining engagement is so much more than follow-up, it creates opportunities to continue to serve our clients and provide value. Continually showing up in a consistent manner builds trust and develops lasting relationships. Mardi Dover founder and principal of Gardens by Mardi shares her process and some great insight into being of exceptional service to her clients and maintaining engagement.
Find out more about Mardi here https://www.gardensbymardi.com/ https://www.mardidover.com/ and on social @gardensbymardi
Suggested Episodes:
39: Empowerment and Decision-Making from the Client Perspective with Kathleen Burgler2023-09-2253 minThe Process Driven Designer40: What's in a Contract?Contracts- What are the common methods for presentation and what elements should be included? Most important is when to get an attorney involved to ensure your contract is written properly and provides you with the legal coverage you are looking for.
Relevant Episodes:
13: Delivering on Expectations
5: Efficiency and Profitability
2: Communication of Design
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco. Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars, courses, and other offerings https://kismetdesignco.com/classes
2023-09-1317 minThe Process Driven Designer39: Empowerment and Decision Making from the Client Perspective with Kathleen BurglerJoin me in discussing the design process from the client's perspective. Kathleen and I talk about process, empowerment, decision-making, and values. Kathleen is a fellow business owner and one of my clients. She runs a divorce coaching business and draws some great connections between the role of a coach and a designer.
Find Kathleen here: https://kathleenburgler.com, instagram @katburglerwellness , Linkedin: Kathleen Burgler and Ticktok: @Katburgler
Related episodes:
35: Designing Experiences
34: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 2 Lisa Nunamaker
33: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 1 Lisa Nunamaker
2023-09-0643 minThe Process Driven Designer38: The Power of Environment- Learning Through OsmosisWell, we all know that you unfortunately cannot learn through osmosis but you can set up your environment to get exposure to many learning opportunities. Setting up your physical and mental environment for success can boost productivity and inspiration. The power of influence that the people you surround yourself with also impacts your everyday life.
Suggested episodes:
37: The Power of Education and Where it Falls Short
30: Teamwork
28: The Value of Networking
11: Taking the leap into business ownership with Sarah Van Sanden
Please be sure to su...2023-08-3009 minThe Process Driven Designer37: The Power of Education and Where it Falls ShortFirst things first - Go Cougs! ....The role of education is to teach us the foundational basics and teach us the tools to put to use in practice. There is a reason that many certified or licensed
professions require both education and professional practice to become certified. You spend a few years learning the foundations principles and tools then you go out into the real world and have to prove that you can put those skills to use effectively.
Suggested episodes:
34: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 2 Lisa Nunamaker
33: Empowering & Educating Designers pt 1 Lisa Nunamaker2023-08-2211 minThe Process Driven Designer36: Finding New ClientsJust starting out? business a little slow? not sure where to look to find new clients... I have found there are 2 reliable ways to build exposure and bring in new work.
Related episodes:
29: Switching Careers and Finding Transferable Skills with Courtney Olander
28: The Value of Networking
25: The Creation of a Show Garden
24: Process for Efficiency in Hand Drafting with Sara Meier
20: Building Brand
11: Taking the leap into business ownership with Sarah Van
Sanden
9: Defining your Ideal Client
4: Building...2023-08-1409 minThe Process Driven Designer35: Designing ExperiencesA landscape design is more than just creating a space for aesthetics- the space needs to function and provide a valuable experience for years to come. My recent visit to the stunning garden of artist Robert Fairfax inspired me to think about the journey and experience in a garden more. Follow me on Instagram to see photos of the garden!
Connected episodes:
27: Confidence and Leading the Design Process
25: The Creation of a Show Garden
13: Delivering on Expectations
3: Inspiration and Passion- the Design Process
2: Communication of D...2023-06-1911 minThe Process Driven DesignerBonus: Sneak Peek of Upcoming Webinar: The Process of Design- June 15thHere is a sneak peek of my upcoming webinar through The Landscape Expo.
Sign up here to join me for this webinar on June 15th, 11am PST
https://thelandscapeexpo.com/tle-academy/webinars/process-of-landscape-design
I hope to see you there! 2023-05-3103 minThe Process Driven Designer34: Empowering and Educating Designers with Lisa Nunamaker Part 2
Part 2 as Lisa Nunamaker joins me to discuss how she got into the landscape industry, her perspectives on teaching and empowering designers, and so much more. She delves into some of her favorite resources and some people who inspire her.
Follow Lisa here: www.papergardenworkshop.com @paper.garden.workshop
Inspiring people:
Part 1 of the conversation with Lisa Nunamaker
Other Relevant Episodes:
27: Confidence and Leading the Design Process
23: Credentials and Licenses- What They Mean and are They Worth
it
22: Incorporating Color into your D...2023-05-3129 min
The Green Meridian Podcast - A Landscape Design/Build Toolkit38: A Passion for Process. In conversation with landscape architect Kryssie MaybayLandscape architect Kryssie Maybay is a talented residential garden designer that has been working in the Pacific Northwest region for many years. A detailed and meticulous creator of outdoor spaces, Kryssie brings a special sensibility that many of us respect in a successful landscape designer, that special ability to methodically and creatively bring complex projects from conception through construction and completion. This ability is a rare gift in the trade and Kryssie does it with a passion for process.On this episode, Kryssie tells us how she puts it all together. Listen to Kryssie's podcast "The...2023-05-3137 minThe Process Driven Designer33: Empowering & Educating Designers with Lisa Nunamaker- Part 1Lisa Nunamaker joins me to discuss how she got into the landscape industry, her perspectives on teaching and empowering designers, and so much more. My favorite quote from this first segment of our conversation is 'It's your imperfections that make your work really cool'! We talk about getting over perfectionism and owning who you are as well as learning to say what you are thinking and not being afraid to speak up regardless of your experience level compared to the remainder of the room. Her work and perspectives are so inspiring. please find out more by visiting her website...2023-05-2437 minThe Process Driven Designer32: Pros and Cons to the at Home Office SpaceMost if not all solopreneurs work from home. There are many benefits to having a home office but on the flip side of that, there are some great benefits to having a dedicated (out of your home) office as well. One of the most compelling perks of a home office is not having the rent expense of office space. What does your ideal workspace look like?
Connected episodes:
30: Teamwork
26: Living Seasonally and Designing a Business Seasonally
24: Process for Efficiency in Hand Drafting with Sara Meier2023-04-2710 minThe Process Driven Designer31: Business Acquisitions with Rodrigo FriasI get to discuss the learning process and motivations in purchasing a business and jumping into the landscape industry with Rodrigo Frias the new owner of Classic Nursery in Woodinville, WA. We discuss how to assess existing systems and when to implement changes and new processes. We even delve into the navigation of managing designers and creatives. Learn more about Classic Nursery at www.classicnursery.com They are also on Pinterest, Houzz, Instagram, Angies List, and Facebook.
This conversation proves that even those outside of our industry that do their research do not know the industry's complexities...2023-04-1740 minThe Process Driven Designer30: TeamworkNo matter how big or small your business is, teamwork is a vital ingredient to your success. Even for those of you that are solopreneurs, you may not have a team of employees, but you still have a team of collaborators that make your business run smoothly. There is a lot of business advice out there from seasoned business people wisely advising us to hire out the skills we lack or the tasks we don’t enjoy doing. For most entrepreneurs that can be a difficult thing to pinpoint because most of us think we can do everything and an...2023-03-3010 minThe Process Driven Designer29: Switching Careers and Finding Transferable Skills with Courtney OlanderJoin me in talking with Courtney Olander of Olander Garden Design. We discuss everything from shifting careers and how to find transferable skills to making connections and networking. Courtney discusses the importance of composition and imagery in the design industry and how she used those skills from her previous career to kickstart her business.
Here are some of the designers she is inspired by that were mentioned in the episode
Claire Kennedy Design
Botanica Design
Considered Design
Orca Living
Connected episodes:
28: The Value of N...2023-03-221h 02The Process Driven Designer28: The Value of NetworkingThey say your potential is influenced by the 5 people you spend the most time with. I won't dispute that there is truth in that, but I also think the net of influence spans more than 5 people. It is often said that entrepreneurship is lonely. It can be but it doesn’t have to be. The kicker is you have to be vulnerable and put yourself out there.
Connected episodes:
11: Taking the leap into business ownership with Sarah Van Sanden
4: Building a Business Through Referrals
1: The Process Driven Designer
Please be...2023-03-1512 minThe Process Driven Designer27: Confidence and Leading the Design ProcessConfidence is an important part of your brand and is a key ingredient to success and happiness. Confidence is a state of feeling certain or a feeling of self-assurance arising from one’s appreciation of one’s own abilities or qualities. Confidence is built over time through experience. Each time you do that you grow, and it builds your skills and the inner knowing that you not only can do that thing but that you can step out of your comfort zone and learn new things. I position myself as the leader of the design process by stating the proc...2023-02-2824 minThe Process Driven Designer26: Living Seasonally and Designing a Business SeasonallyI think I am most drawn to this idea of living seasonally because I find so much beauty in the natural changes of the seasons and it always brings a sense of anticipation. We are part of the system naturally, we have contrived our own system that runs very separate from the natural seasonal shifts but it's always there in the background and occasionally eeks its way up and through our artificial system. The most significant benefit I see to incorporating the idea of living more seasonally and embracing the fluctuations and flow better is that I see it...2023-02-1715 minThe Process Driven Designer25: The Creation of a Show GardenFor those of you in the pacific northwest, you know that the annual northwest flower and garden show is coming up. Yes, the gardens and many of the vendor booths are stunning but not many people know what goes into their creation. For those of you who have been part of the creation of a show garden you know what goes into it. the months of planning, the countless late nights, and crossed fingers. It is a lot of work and that experience helps you to admire and appreciate the gardens so much more. Listen to get a glimpse...2023-02-0815 minThe Process Driven Designer24: Process for Efficiency in Hand Drafting with Sara MeierJoin me for a great conversation with Sara Meier owner of GreenThumb SAM. We discuss everything from the markers she uses and the processes she has in place to create her stunning drawings to balancing life as a mom and business owner. She shares her tips for organization and workflow to maximize efficiency as well as some self-care tips and rules she has in place to keep her on task and loving what she does. Her drawings are truly works of art- if you don't already her Instagram is a must-follow!
Find out more about Sara and...2023-02-0154 minThe Process Driven Designer23: Credentials and Licenses- What They Mean and are They Worth itIn the very broad field of landscape design, there are multiple credentials you will come across. At the end of someone's signature line on their email you will see many different acronyms- Some of them are assigned as being part of an association like APLD or ASLA, and others are for the various credentials, licenses, or certifications they hold. Anyone can call themselves a landscape designer. There is no requirement of experience, education, or aptitude to call yourself a designer or to deliver those services in the residential sector. But boy is there a difference in the range of...2023-01-2515 minThe Process Driven Designer22: Incorporating Color into your DeliverablesEach design you deliver is a work of art. In my opinion, color is what brings a plan to life. it doesn’t matter if you hand draft or use a cad program. Color is what really makes your drawings have a wow factor. Color can be incorporated in a few different ways. Let's discuss the options for process, deliverables, and the cost associated with your time and the cost of printing.
Connected episodes:
2: Communication of Design
3: Inspiration and Passion- the Design Process
5: Efficiency and Profitability
12: De...2023-01-1913 minThe Process Driven Designer21: Site Measurement ProcessSite measurements are an inevitable part of our jobs but there are many different ways to gather the information. I will take you through my process although in thinking about this I have realized that there are pieces I won’t be able to show the way I want without video. Therefore, I will also offer a live webinar with demonstrations of what we will be reviewing today and more- be sure to sign up on my website www.kismetdesignco.com. In this episode, I cover what is in my measurement bag and the step-by-step process I go through to...2023-01-1013 minThe Process Driven Designer20: Building BrandBuilding a brand is so much more than just a logo and a color scheme. Brand is what you stand for and why you do what you do. The passion you have is the driving force in building your brand. Whether you are a business owner or an employee, as a creative anything, you bring a critical piece to the brand that you serve and sell. Most of my colleagues are solopreneurs meaning they run a business of 1. Their business brand is also their personal brand. They are selling themselves as much as they are selling the service. One c...2023-01-0416 minThe Process Driven Designer19: Deliberate not Perfect- Calming the Voice of PerfectionismFor a long time, I embraced perfectionism as a badge of honor as many of you likely have at some point. But I found myself asking at what cost perfectionism was worth. I still hold myself to very high standards, yet I no longer strive for perfection. The weight of the expectation of perfect is a bit much. The design industry runs on the constant chase of beauty and beauty and perfection are placed on a pedestal that we all look up at in awe. Striving to be perfect can be very stressful and can breed a lot of...2022-12-2816 minThe Process Driven Designer18: Artistry of Design Pt 2 with Lisa BauerLisa Bauer is a landscape designer, certified professional horticulturalist, and the owner of Chartreuse Landscape Design. We discuss design process and inspiration along with our favorite plants, the use of natives and the common misnomer regarding hardy tropicals in the PNW. Her designs play with the composition of clean crisp lines of the hardscape elements contrasted with big bold lush foliage. Listen in to hear how she brings it all together.
Find out more about Lisa and see his work at www.chartreuselandscape.com or on social media @chartreuslandscapedesign
Connected episodes:
3: Inspiration and...2022-12-2124 minThe Process Driven Designer17: Artistry of Design Pt 1 with Lisa BauerLisa Bauer is a landscape designer, certified professional horticulturalist, and the owner of Chartreuse Landscape Design. We discuss design process and inspiration along with our favorite plants, the use of natives and the common misnomer regarding hardy tropicals in the PNW. Her designs play with the composition of clean crisp lines of the hardscape elements contrasted with big bold lush foliage. Listen in to hear how she brings it all together.
Find out more about Lisa and see his work at www.chartreuselandscape.com or on social media @chartreuslandscapedesign
Connected episodes:
3: Inspiration and...2022-12-1429 minThe Process Driven Designer16: Collaboration Between Installer and Designer with Kevin MonohanKevin Monohan is the owner of Avalon NW a premier landscape installation company in Seattle. We discuss the contractor's perspective on the role of the designer through the installation of a landscape and his evolution of business. Construction is often a very high pace, high-stress endeavor. I found his insight into finding a balance of schedule, services, and crew size to achieve a comfortable balance point inspiring. Kevin and I also discuss the importance of saying no to make yourself available to say yes and building trust by being of value and offering help to colleagues and collaborators.
2022-12-0642 minThe Process Driven Designer15: Virtual Meetings and PresentationsIn this episode, I will take you through how I modify my typical presentation process for a virtual meeting. With the pandemic, we all got thrown into virtual meetings whether we liked it or not. For me it was a great thing- now that life is more normal I don’t conduct a lot of virtual meetings anymore but I am delighted to offer them, especially for those clients that are not always able to coordinate time away from work to meet with me. the conference room on their lunch break gives them more flexibility to meet with me to...2022-11-3018 minThe Process Driven Designer14: Year-End PlanningYear-end planning is not just about the end of the year but about the start of a new year. The calendar changes and so with it the tracking of business financials (for tax purposes anyways). But most of all it is a mindset shift. The new year provides a clean slate, a set point upon which to build. It is easy to set goals at the beginning of the year- the challenge is keeping the momentum. Join me in walking through my year-end planning process.
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco. Please a...2022-11-2315 minThe Process Driven Designer13: Delivering on ExpectationsEach client will approach your business with expectations based on their desires and past experience. Those expectations will be either confirmed, denied, or transformed at each touch point they have with your business. This is obvious, the not-so-obvious piece is that the expectations need to be confirmed or denied across the board. If one touch point fails, it can take down the entire experience. Setting and managing expectations is essential at every step of the way. Intentionally designing the experience of each touch point a client has with your business will set the foundation for the remainder of your...2022-11-1512 minThe Process Driven Designer12: Design Presentation- a valuable tool in the design processEspecially as a designer, aesthetics are essential every step of the way. How you walk clients through the documents sets the tone and serves as a filter for which they digest the information provided. How you deliver and present your ideas is part of the entire design experience. It is one of the most valuable touchpoints you have with your client. It proves or disproves to your client your knowledge, talent, and dedication to them as your client. Each client wants to feel like they are your top priority and your presentation skills can convey to them how important...2022-11-0916 minThe Process Driven Designer11: Taking the leap into business ownership with Sarah Van SandenJoin me in a conversation with fellow landscape designer and business owner Sarah Van Sanden owner of SVS Landscape Design on the decision to take the leap into entrepreneurship, building a business, being part of a support group, hiring, and business vision and goals.
Find out more about Sarah and see her work at www.SVSlandscapedesign.com and on Instagram.
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco. Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars, courses, and other offerings https://kismetdesignco.com/classes/. Be sure to sign up to re...2022-11-0539 minThe Process Driven Designer10: Navigating Sexism with Confidence, and the Role of MentorshipMost of the construction industry and even the design industry is dominated by men. I have never been bothered by being one of few or the only woman and have been very fortunate to gain a lot of valuable exposure to the industry in an open, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment. I have had many mentors throughout my career that fostered that experience. I am fortunate and am not directly confronted with sexism often, mostly because of the fantastic contractors and crews that I work with. When we work together and collaborate we raise the industry as a whole higher...2022-10-1413 minThe Process Driven Designer9: Defining your Ideal ClientWhy is defining your ideal client important? Well, it all circles back to intentionally creating a business that you love. If you work on projects and with clients that inspire and invigorate you it will make work more enjoyable. I also find when I am in the sweet spot, I am more creative and more efficient and the workflow feels much smoother and I accomplish tasks with ease.
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco. Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars and other offerings https://kismetdesignco.com/classes/.2022-10-0310 minThe Process Driven Designer8: Workflow- how to stay on track and what to do when you don'tPlanning for an ideal workflow is super important not only for financials but also for my sanity. Like I said it doesn’t always work out as planned but I do put a lot of effort into planning my project flow.
Planning helps to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your time because we all know that busyness does not necessarily equal effectiveness. Planning your ideal workflow is balancing ambition and wellbeing and designing how your business fits within your life and your personality rather than the other way around. Last but not least have trust in yo...2022-09-1414 minThe Process Driven Designer7: Collaborating with a Remote TeamOur very first podcast with a co-host! Hear from Colleen Hanzen Landscape Designer and Office Manager at Kismet Design about working collaboratively, remote working tools, delegation, organization systems, and communication tools. Be sure to find out more about Colleen at www.KismetDesignCo.com.
Please be sure to subscribe and follow @kismetdesignco. Please also sign up for my newsletter to be notified of upcoming webinars and other offerings https://kismetdesignco.com/classes/.
2022-09-0124 minThe Process Driven Designer6: Work- life balance: Saying no means getting to say Yes!Balance is a widespread topic lately. It seems everyone is talking about work-life balance. But there isn’t really a quantifiable definition of what that really means. That is because it will be different for everyone. Many times it feels like one side has to suffer to achieve this balance but it doesn’t. it is all about developing the mindset and sticking with it knowing that the outcome is totally worth it.
One thing you can’t consistently do is say yes to everything. it is ok and actually really good to say no sometimes and show y...2022-08-2513 minThe Process Driven Designer5: Efficiency and ProfitabilityHow do you charge for your creativity, what do you charge, and are you charging too much or too little? The hard questions creative entrepreneurs often find themselves asking.
Why do you show up in your business or job every day? It is not just to punch a time clock and earn a paycheck. It is often so much more than that. For creatives like us, it is often quite complex. But it boils down to a balance of finances and passion. So, how do you charge enough to be profitable in a creative business? In my op...2022-08-1123 minThe Process Driven Designer4: Building a Business Through ReferralsReferrals can be a potent tool for building a business. Join me in discussing how I acquire and develop my referrals, which have led to the success of the first few years of my business. Starting a business during a global pandemic may sound scary and daunting but given a lot of luck and some gratitude and good intentions it has been a blast.
Want to learn more? Follow me on Instagram @kismetdesignco or sign up for email notifications of my upcoming classes and coaching offerings www.KismetDesignCo.com/Classes/ 2022-08-0512 minThe Process Driven Designer3: Inspiration and Passion- the Design ProcessInspiration can be found everywhere if you are open to it. Let's discuss harnessing and utilizing it to fuel your passion. 2022-07-1612 minThe Process Driven Designer2: Communication of DesignCommunication is the greatest tool in customer service that I have. Providing good communication will keep your process flowing efficiently, help you manage client expectations, and share your love and joy of design with your clients and colleagues. Join me for a brain dump on my thoughts on how I communicate through the entire design process and into the installation of a project. Listen carefully and respond creatively! see more on my design process at www.KismetDesignCo.com2022-07-0620 min
The Process Driven Designer1: The Process Driven DesignerProcess is a valuable tool that can drive your creativity and provide a framework of efficiency and profitability for all creative professionals. Join me for a brief introduction to my process and go through a few key steps into developing and refining your process. learn more about my process at www.KismetDesignCo.com 2022-06-2907 minThe Process Driven DesignerThe Process Driven Designer (Trailer)2022-06-2800 min