Trusted Partners: How to Build Your Go-To Vendor List

S6 Ep.198 Trusted Partners: How to Build Your Go-To Vendor List

PODCAST
October 19, 2025•2 min read
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If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to find and build relationships with vendors, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Juliana and Debbie, and we’re pulling back the curtain on what itreallylooks like to source confidently, vet your partners, and make those connections that actually make your job easier — not harder.

We’re talking about the first steps to take when you’re new, how to walk into a showroom without feeling like an imposter, and what to do when a vendor just doesn’t feel like the right fit. It’s real talk, a few laughs, and a whole lot of practical advice from people who’ve been there.

IN THIS EPISODE:

  • How I started building my vendor list when I was brand new

  • Why asking “dumb questions” is actually one of the smartest things you can do

  • The difference between a showroom rep and agoodshowroom rep

  • Rookie mistakes I see all the time at market (and how to avoid them)

  • My favorite way to track what I sit on, love, and want to specify later

  • Tips for organizing your photos and notes so market trips actually pay off

  • How I use Instagram to find new vendors and get inspired

  • What I always ask about pricing, freight, and lead times

  • Why you should never feel “less than” if you don’t know what something costs

  • How I decide when it’s time to walk away from a vendor relationship

I know firsthand how intimidating it can feel to start building vendor relationships — especially when you’re newer in the industry or walking into a showroom for the first time. But here’s the truth: those repswantyour business. You have every right to be there.

When you find the right partners, it changes everything about how you serve your clients and how smoothly your projects run. I want you to feel confident, informed, and empowered to show up as the professional you already are.

RESOURCES:

INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program:

https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery

SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location.

https://mysidemark.com/

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

interior designer mlinteriorsgroupinterior design podcast
Michelle Lynne owns and operates her interior design firm, ML Interiors Group in Dallas, TX. She is also a renowned business coach for interior designers at the Design Bakehouse, where she teaches designers how to make six-figure leaps in their businesses. She is also the founder of Studio Works, a coworking space for interior designers, and a co-founder of Sidemark, the all-in-one sales and marketing software for interior designers. Michelle is currently serving as President for the Interior Design Society DFW Chapter.

Michelle Lynne

Michelle Lynne owns and operates her interior design firm, ML Interiors Group in Dallas, TX. She is also a renowned business coach for interior designers at the Design Bakehouse, where she teaches designers how to make six-figure leaps in their businesses. She is also the founder of Studio Works, a coworking space for interior designers, and a co-founder of Sidemark, the all-in-one sales and marketing software for interior designers. Michelle is currently serving as President for the Interior Design Society DFW Chapter.

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