Luxury and High End, Interior Architecture

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in home decor but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lori Dennis, CEO of Lori Dennis, Inc., located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are an interior architecture and interior design firm for residential, hospitality, and commercial interiors, exteriors, and landscape. We frequently work alongside SoCal Contractor for a seamless design-build experience in major renovations, remodeling, historical preservation, room additions, and new construction.

Tell us about yourself

Since I was a little girl, I've always been inspired by how a space can completely transform with the use of thoughtful design. It started with a simple pair of Popeye bed sheets that changed my world. On the weekends in high school, I used to go around the neighborhood and walk into every open house I could find - that was my entertainment!

As an adult, I studied interior design and architecture and focused mainly on Green Interior Design. I even wrote the book on it, which is in its second edition. I'm motivated by finding the best value, beautifying, and solution for each project and doing it in a responsible way.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I'm proud of having a successful business for over 20 years. And this is really a people business. During this time, I've been able to gather a team full of highly skilled, kind, and incredible craftspeople from designers, contractors, manufacturers, and trades. I'm so happy to work with these professionals for so many years, which gives me confidence in providing our clients with the best service and end results they could have possibly imagined.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

It took a while for me to find a bigger perspective on the ebbs and flows of the business and the economy. Now that I've been through a couple of ups and downs, I've learned what to focus on and grow during slow times and how to manage the hustle when times are booming.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Gather a great team of people who you respect, trust and enjoy working with.
Find your organizational flow for each phase of a project and for every aspect of the business. This starts with client management from the initial interview to creating a solid contract through ongoing communication and move-in. And project management from accounting to purchasing, contractor coordination, and installation.
Lastly, constant marketing is key to moving forward. This can be through social media, online SEO content, publications, or speaking engagements.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.loridennis.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoriDennisDesign/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/loridennisinc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loridennisinc/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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