S7 Ep.208 Interior Design Biz Ain't for Punks
Building a design business doesn’t happen by accident.
In this episode, Melissa Fields shares what it really looked like behind the scenes — undercharging, no process, imposter syndrome, and learning the hard way that being busy doesn’t equal being profitable.
From $100 consults to hiring her first employee and stepping fully into the CEO role, this conversation is honest, grounding, and incredibly encouraging for any designer in the “figuring it out” phase.
IN THIS EPISODE:
How Melissa transitioned from a 20-year military career into interior design
Why she started in home staging — and how she knew it wasn’t the right fit
The reality of building a portfolio when you don’t have clients or capital
How imposter syndrome shows up through undercharging and overworking
Why “being busy” doesn’t always mean being profitable
The importance of developing a clear process and pricing structure
What finally pushed Melissa to invest in business coaching
How confidence grows when your skills, systems, and self-trust align
This conversation is for designers who know they’re talented but feel stuck — overwhelmed, underpaid, and unsure of how to turn their passion into a sustainable business. Melissa’s story is such a powerful reminder that confidence doesn’t come before action — it’s built through it. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, your pricing, or whether you “belong” in this industry, this episode will meet you right where you are.
Melissa Fields is the CEO and Principal Designer of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design firm in San Antonio, Texas. After a 20-year career as an officer in the United States Air Force, Melissa followed her passion for design and built a thriving studio known for
its elevated client experience, meticulous attention to detail, and deeply personalized approach to whole-home transformations.
Today, Melissa specializes in designing modern, livable, luxury spaces for established homeowners and empty-nesters who want to invest in high-quality, long-term design. Her unique combination of leadership, discipline, and creativity has allowed her to scale her business
intentionally while maintaining a high-end, service-driven process.
Melissa is passionate about empowering other designers—whether they’re just starting out or well established—to embrace their strengths, trust their creative instincts, and build businesses that reflect their own values. She believes great design changes how people live, and that a strong, well-run design business is just as important as a beautiful final reveal.
Fix the Leaks: The Hidden Places Your Business Is Quietly Losing Time & Money https://www.addevent.com/event/qjrn64tbm77l
How to Price Your Design Services with Confidence https://thedesignbakehouse.com/pricing-workshop
RESOURCES:
INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program:
https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery
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MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month.
https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab
Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/
Join our Free Facebook Community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad
Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide
Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact
