Checklist for your initial meeting with an interior designer

Collect Examples
Select 3-4 design magazines and tear out pictures of things that you like and that reflect the look you are after. Don't limit yourself as this is the dream phase. Even if you like only one thing in the photo, tear it out as a point of discussion.

List Your Do's and Don’ts
Make a list of any specific design feelings you have — colors you love, colors you want to avoid, the furniture that has to stay because it has sentimental value, etc.

Determine Your Timeframe
When do you want the work to be completed? Are you in a hurry because you have a baby on the way and need the nursery finished by the due date? Are you hoping to re-decorate by the holidays? Or, would you rather work slowly over a longer period of time?

Estimate Your Budget
Even if you think you don't have one, you probably have some idea of what you are willing to spend. Come up with a "ballpark" figure if you can.

Encourage Team Collaboration
If your project involves an architect and/or contractor, you may want to hire your interior designer during the planning stages. This way everyone is on the same page and you can avoid costly mistakes down the road — such as forgetting to leave enough wall-space for the TV in your sunroom or placing your light over the middle of your new canopy bed!