How to Prepare for Your Interior Design Consultation: 3 Tips for Busy Homeowners Who Want Effortless, Elevated Spaces
If you’re investing in a beautifully designed home, your interior design consultation is the first step toward achieving a space that’s both polished and perfectly tailored to your lifestyle.
At Mickler & Co., we work with discerning homeowners who appreciate thoughtful design, high-quality furnishings, and the peace of mind that comes from trusting professionals to handle every detail. Whether you’re planning to refresh a single room or reimagine your entire home, here’s how to prepare for a design consultation that sets the tone for a seamless, full-service experience.
1. Share Your Vision, Not the Details
You don’t need to have it all figured out—that’s our job. But it’s helpful to think about how your home needs to work for you. Do you host often? Have young children or pets? Want to feel more at ease and inspired in your day-to-day routine?
A few insights into how you live will help us shape a design plan that’s both functional and effortlessly elevated.
2. Reflect, Don’t Research
There’s no need to fall down a Pinterest rabbit hole. Instead, jot down a few things you know you like (and don’t). Tell us what’s working in your space—and what absolutely isn’t. We’ll guide you through the rest.
We’ll also talk about your investment range, key priorities, and any existing furnishings you want to incorporate. From there, we’ll build a plan that blends style and substance—without putting the pressure on you to figure it all out.
3. Trust the Process
You’ve chosen to work with a talented interior designer for a reason—to make your life easier and your home more beautiful. Our role is to bring clarity, creativity, and structure to a process that often overwhelms homeowners.
The best results happen when clients are open to new ideas and trust our expertise to translate their vision into a cohesive, magazine-worthy space that reflects their lifestyle and taste.
What to Expect from a Wilmington In-Home Design Consultation
Our in-home consultations in Wilmington, NC are relaxed but purposeful. In just one hour, we’ll assess your home, listen to your goals, and offer expert insights that lead to thoughtful, impactful design decisions. You’ll leave the meeting with a clear path forward—without having to micromanage a single step.
We serve clients in Wilmington and surrounding areas, delivering timeless, family-friendly interiors that are as functional as they are stunning.
Ready to Hand Off the Hard Work?
If you value great design but don’t have the time (or interest) to manage every detail yourself, we’re here to help. Our full-service approach allows you to step back while we take care of everything—from sourcing high-quality furnishings to final installation.
Schedule a discovery call to learn more or click HERE to schedule your Wilmington interior design consultation and let’s begin creating a space that feels like home, only better.
5 Reasons Why Home Staging Can Help Your Vacant Listing
Stepping into a beautifully designed home that caters to comfort invites you to relax, connect, and truly live. But when that same home stands empty, it feels hollow and unfinished —full of potential, yet lacking the warmth, texture, and soul that make a house feel like home.
Reason #1: Flaws Become the Focal Point
In vacant spaces, flaws such as awkward layouts, outdated fixtures, or even the smallest knicks on the trim become instantly noticeable. There’s nothing to distract or soften the eye. The right furnishings and thoughtful staging can completely transform these flaws, guiding the eye toward a room’s strengths and creating flow, function, and visual balance.
Reason #2: You Can’t Attract The Right Buyer
Home staging is about more than just decorating. It’s about strategically appealing to the right buyer for both the home and its neighborhood. Empty rooms don’t tell a story or help buyers visualize how they’ll live in the space, which can make a listing feel cold and uninspiring. Vacant homes on the MLS often get overlooked entirely, missing opportunities to connect with the right buyer.
Reason #3: Empty Rooms Feel Smaller
Contrary to popular belief, empty rooms often feel smaller because there’s no sense of scale or flow to guide the eye. The right furniture placement not only defines the purpose of each space but can also make rooms appear larger and more functional.
Reason #4: Unstaged Homes Lack Purpose
Nearly 70% of potential buyers struggle to imagine how they’d live in a vacant home, making it harder for them to see themselves living there. Without staging, rooms lack clear purpose. This leaves buyers guessing whether a space is meant to be a bedroom, an office, or just wasted square footage. Staging eliminates any guesswork, defining each room with clarity.
Reason #5: Vacant Listings Undervalue the Home
Staging plays a key role in establishing a home’s perceived value and justifying its price point. Empty rooms rarely create a sense of luxury or worth, making it harder for buyers to connect the space with a higher asking price. In contrast, well-staged rooms with stylish, comfortable furnishings instantly elevate a vacant home, making it feel more luxurious and absolutely worth the investment.
Not long ago, I had a potential client tell me we were much more expensive than another designer they’d met with. After a few follow-up questions, I realized they were comparing us—a full-service interior design firm—to a freelance designer and an in-store designer at a local furniture store. All talented professionals, no doubt. But we weren’t comparing apples to apples.
The truth is, most homeowners don’t realize how many different types of design services exist—and how different the pricing, scope, and overall experience can be. It’s easy to assume “designer” means the same thing across the board, but the behind-the-scenes setup of each business can look very different.
If you’re thinking about hiring a designer, here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of design services, plus the pros and cons of each—so you can figure out which one makes the most sense for your project.
1. Independent Designer (Design-Only Services)
Many interior designers begin their careers as solo entrepreneurs, and some choose to stay that way. These designers typically focus on providing design guidance without directly selling furniture or décor. Instead, they might send clients shopping links to retail sites like West Elm, Pottery Barn, or Wayfair. Some use affiliate links, earning small commissions when clients make purchases through those recommendations.
Pros:
Typically lower design fees
Personalized, one-on-one service
Clients can shop at their own pace
Cons:
Limited access to trade-only or custom furnishings
The client is responsible for purchasing, coordinating delivery, and handling any damages or returns
Less control over the final result if items are backordered or unavailable
Good Fit For:
Homeowners who want design guidance but prefer to handle the purchasing and project management themselves.
2. Designer or Firm Using a Showroom Partner
Some designers work closely with local furniture showrooms or stores to source furniture and décor. In this arrangement, the designer places orders through the store, which takes care of receiving, inspecting, and storing the items. This setup allows designers access to high-end brands without having to meet the minimum order requirements that direct vendors often demand.
Pros:
Access to better quality and designer-only brands
The store handles logistics like shipping and storage
Designers can offer more cohesive, elevated results
Cons:
Limited to the lines the store or showroom carries
Designers may split their earnings with the store, which can affect pricing
Clients may experience longer lead times depending on the showroom’s schedule
Good Fit For:
Clients who want a polished result without the complications of managing orders and deliveries on their own.
3. Full-Service Designer (Design + Direct Furniture Sales)
The independent design service provided by firms like Mickler & Co. handle everything from start to finish—including design, product sourcing, ordering, shipping, receiving, and final installation. Full-service firms don’t rely on retail sites like Wayfair or Pottery Barn. Instead, we work directly with trade vendors to bring unique and uncommon, high-quality furnishings to our clients. We invest significant time researching, vetting, and building relationships with trusted vendors—allowing us to source distinctive pieces that aren’t available to the general public. This means better craftsmanship, more customization options, and a higher level of control over your project.
Pros:
A true turn-key experience
Access to exclusive brands, custom furnishings, and better quality
One point of contact for design, sourcing, and installation
Cons:
Typically a higher overall investment
Less flexibility for DIY-style collaboration
Not ideal for clients who prefer to shop themselves or stay hands-on
Good Fit For:
Busy homeowners and professionals who want a seamless, all-inclusive process and are ready to invest in quality.
4. In-House Designers at Furniture Stores
Many local and chain furniture stores employ in-house designers to help customers pull together rooms using the store’s inventory. These designers usually offer free or discounted services and earn commission based on what their clients purchase.
Pros:
No (or very low) design fees
Quick access to in-stock or quick-ship pieces
Helpful if you already know what store you want to shop
Cons:
Design recommendations are limited to what’s available in-store
The focus is often on selling rather than overall vision or planning
May not include installation, styling, or customization options
Good Fit For:
Clients looking to furnish a room quickly or who already plan to purchase from a specific store.
5. Design-Build Firms (Designer + Contractor)
Some firms offer both design and construction under one roof. These teams often include interior designers, general contractors, and project managers working together from the start. They’re especially useful for renovations, additions, and kitchen or bathroom remodels.
Pros:
Streamlined communication between designer and builder
Fewer handoffs and miscommunications
Efficient timelines and budget tracking
Cons:
May have limited furniture and decorating services
Some firms lean more construction-focused than design-focused
You may be locked into working with their contractor team
Good Fit For:
Homeowners planning a remodel or addition who want one team to handle everything from drawings to demolition to final finishes.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s the thing—every one of these models has its place. The “right” type of design service really depends on your project, your personality, and your priorities. If you’re super hands-on and love the thrill of the hunt, a design-only service might be perfect. If you’re juggling work, family, and a million other things, you may want the ease of a full-service firm or design-build team.
The important part is knowing what you’re signing up for—and making sure the designer’s process and pricing match the kind of support you’re looking for. When you understand the differences, it’s easier to make a smart decision and find a designer who feels like the right fit.
Need help figuring out which approach is right for your project? Schedule a Discovery Call to learn more about our full-service interior design service and home staging services in Wilmington and surrounding Brunswick and Pender counties. We’re happy to walk you through what we do—and help you decide if we’re the right partner for your home.
Renovate or Decorate? How to Choose the Right Path for Your Home
If you’re deciding between a home renovation and a redecoration, there’s more to consider than just the budget. From function to finish, each approach serves a different purpose—and the right one depends on how your home works for you today. Keep reading for expert insights from Mickler & Co. in Wilmington, NC on whether it’s time to knock down walls—or simply update the furniture and decor.
Is a Home Renovation Truly Necessary?
A full renovation is often the right choice when your floor plan is no longer functional or when you’re planning to move walls, plumbing, or electrical systems. This might include reconfiguring your kitchen layout, adding new windows for better natural light, or creating a more open-concept living space.
Renovations are ideal when:
The layout doesn’t support your lifestyle
You want to update behind-the-walls systems
You need new doors, windows, or structural adjustments
If your home feels cramped, segmented, or simply no longer fits your needs, a renovation may be the best long-term investment.
What to Expect from a Full Renovation
When done right, a renovation can completely transform your home—both in how it looks and how it lives. It allows for a custom, highly functional design that’s tailored to your preferences and daily routines.
At Mickler & Co., we guide you through every stage of the renovation process, from space planning to finishes and furnishings. Our Wilmington-based design team collaborates with trusted contractors to ensure every detail reflects your vision.
When Redecorating Is the Smarter Choice
Not every home needs a major overhaul to feel new. Sometimes, a well-thought-out redecoration can breathe fresh life into a space. If your layout works and there are no structural concerns, updating furniture, finishes, and decor may be all that’s needed.
Redecorating is ideal when:
You’re happy with the current layout
You want to update style, color, or furnishings
You’re looking for a faster, less disruptive transformation
Think of it as a style refresh—not a construction project.
What to Expect From a Redecoration?
Redecorating can include a wide range of updates, from new furniture layouts and color palettes to built-ins, wall treatments, and decorative lighting. A thoughtful redecoration can still make your space feel elevated and fresh—without the cost and timeline of a renovation.
Whether you’re preparing a home for sale or simply want to love where you live again, a redecoration can be just as impactful as more extensive changes.
Not Sure Which Interior Design Route to Take? We Can Help
A professional design consultation is a great way to determine the best path forward. At Mickler & Co. Design Studio, we help you assess what’s working (and what’s not), clarify your goals, and outline a plan that fits your budget and timeline. We can help you decide whether to renovate or decorate.
We specialize in:
Full-service interior design in Wilmington, NC
Home renovations and remodeling support
Furniture sourcing and turnkey room updates
Redecorating and home staging for resale
Let’s Make Your Home Work Better for You
Not sure if you need a renovation or just a design refresh? We’re here to help. Book a consultation with Mickler & Co. and we’ll help you figure out the best next steps to make your home more functional and beautiful.
Home Staging vs. Interior Design: 3 Key Differences You Need to Know
Home staging and interior design can look similar at first glance, but they serve very different goals. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right service—whether you’re preparing to sell or investing in a home that supports how you live every day.
1. Home Staging Showcases the Property, Interior Design Personalizes It
Home staging is designed to appeal to the widest possible pool of buyers. It highlights a home’s best features, minimizes distractions, and creates a neutral, welcoming environment that helps buyers picture themselves living there.
Interior design, on the other hand, is deeply personal. It’s tailored to your lifestyle, preferences, and daily routines—resulting in a space that feels intentional, comfortable, and uniquely yours.
In short: staging helps a home sell; interior design helps a home live well.
2. Staging Focuses on Aesthetics, Design Prioritizes Function
Staging is all about first impressions. Think of it as preparing a home for a big debut: strategic furniture placement, balanced scale, and the right finishing touches to make the space shine in photos and showings. The goal is to help the home sell faster—and often for a better price.
Interior design goes beyond visual impact. While aesthetics matter, function is equally important. A well-designed home supports how you actually live—how you move through the space, entertain, relax, and work—so the beauty lasts long after the “reveal.”
3. Staging Preps Your Home for Buyers, Design Makes It Perfect for You
When staging, furniture and décor are selected to photograph beautifully and highlight architectural features during showings. Neutral palettes and universally appealing layouts help buyers connect emotionally—quickly.
Interior design is not about neutrality. It’s about creating a home that reflects your taste, meets your needs, and evolves with your life. The result is a space that feels cohesive, thoughtful, and truly livable.
Designing a Home at This Level Requires More Than Good Taste
If you’re planning a full-service interior design project in Wilmington or the surrounding coastal area, our team creates refined, livable interiors tailored to how you live—never one-size-fits-all solutions.
Whether you’re staging to sell or designing to stay, professional guidance helps bring out the best in your home. Thoughtful design highlights architectural features, enhances flow, and showcases a property’s true potential.
If you’re unsure which service is right for your goals, we’re happy to help you decide.
Our homes should make us feel happy, comfortable, and at ease. After all, homes are a reflection of the homeowners! From personal items collected through fond memories to the way you function in your day-to-day life. Here’s a look into how we discover your interior design style…
Step #1: Gather Inspiration
One of the first tasks we assign to our clients is to find inspiration photos and lots of them! It’s normal to be drawn to multiple styles so we suggest searching by room. Sometimes, people will think they are drawn to a specific style but their inspiration photos say differently! This is why we don’t limit our clients to a specific style, we focus on what they are drawn to and go from there.
Step #2: Identify Key Design Elements
When looking at clients’ inspiration photos, we are looking for common denominators – color palettes, furniture styles, artwork, materials, etc. The main thing we look for in inspiration photos is the overall look and feeling the space creates and then we find how to get there. Check out our fantastic “Find Your Signature Style” quiz to help narrow down your style options. Start your journey by taking the quiz HERE.
Step #3: Create a Concept Board
We typically only need to see a handful of inspiration photos before we can see the vision and start taking notes! Once we pinpoint the overall look the client is after, we find what makes that specific look. It could be a slipcover sofa, distressed wood, or gold accents. Every detail matters but it’s the big picture that we have in mind at all times during the design process.
Finding the look you’re after is the first step to creating the home you’ve always dreamed of. Show us the meal you want and we’ll find all the perfect ingredients to blow it out of the park. Make your home a reflection of you and all the things you love.
Ready to start planning your one-of-a-kind dream space? Let’s chat!
Say Hello To Mickler & Co. Welcome to the Mickler & Co. Design Studio blog, your go-to source for expert interior design, home staging & rental design tips, the latest trends, and creative inspiration to transform your home into a personalized haven.
Visit us at 2007 Dawson St., Wilmington, NC 28403, or shop our online store for inspiration! https://shop.micklerco.com/
