From VP to Designer: How My Corporate Skills Elevate Your Home

How My Background as a Vice President Helps My Interior Design Clients

Before launching Collins and Co Interiors, I spent seven years as a Vice President of Development in a corporate career. At first glance, a VP title and interior design might not seem related. But my corporate experience taught me skills that make me a stronger designer today. Using strategic interior design solutions, I help clients achieve spaces that are beautiful, functional, and stress-free.

Staying Organized

Interior design requires juggling many moving pieces. I often manage 15+ projects at once. My responsibilities include:

• Client communication
• Vendor relationships
• Furniture orders and specifications
• Revisions and timelines
• Team management
• Coordination with contractors, architects, and tradespeople

Without strong organization, our team couldn’t maintain quality or deliver the white-glove service our clients expect.

How My Past Career Prepared Me

As a VP of Development, I managed multiple accounts, coordinated multi-state deals, oversaw teams of seven, and created systems to keep everything running smoothly. These skills translate directly into running design projects efficiently, keeping timelines on track, and giving clients an exceptional experience.

Seeing the Big Picture

A beautiful vision is essential, but interior design requires more than aesthetics. I think big picture about:

• Planning business services
• Building and managing a talented team
• Understanding clients’ lifestyles and functional needs
• Collaborating with contractors and professionals on complex projects
• Anticipating contingencies and budget considerations

This perspective allows me to provide strategic interior design solutions that balance style, functionality, and client expectations.

Strategic Problem-Solving

Design is full of challenges, especially in renovations and new construction. I often need to:

• Solve space planning puzzles
• Design custom cabinetry or millwork
• Select furniture, textiles, and finishes that work cohesively
• Stay within budget while achieving the client’s vision

My corporate problem-solving experience allows me to tackle these challenges creatively, providing clients with thoughtful, innovative solutions.

Communicating Clearly

Clear communication is critical in design. We prioritize it with every client by:

• Sharing the design vision through plans, drawings, or renderings
• Keeping clients informed throughout the process
• Coordinating with contractors, vendors, and other professionals

Effective communication ensures projects run smoothly and reduces stress for our clients.

By combining organization, vision, problem-solving, and communication, my background as a VP allows me to deliver strategic interior design solutions that make every home functional, beautiful, and uniquely tailored to the people who live in it.

 Are you dreaming of a space transformation? I’d love to help bring your vision to life! Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact Danielle HERE to start.

Orlando Interior Designer | Orlando Interior Design