Beautiful spaces start with listening.

One of my favorite things about branding sessions is getting a peek behind the curtain (in this case, a very beautiful one!).

When I spent the day with interior designer Terry Stewart, I expected beautiful materials, floor plans, and gorgeous interiors.

Those were definitely part of the day.

But what surprised me wasn't the design process.
It was how much time Terry spent listening.

Talking with clients. Brainstorming with his team. Comparing samples. Looking over plans. Making sure every decision had a purpose.

And yes... somehow knowing the difference between five shades of beige. (Meanwhile I am just nodding along like I know what “Warm Linen Whisper” looks like. Obviously.)

The point is: Beautiful spaces don't start with furniture. They start with listening.

One thing Terry and I have in common is that we both truly enjoy working with people.

The best part isn't even finishing the project. It's watching someone light up when everything comes together.

That kind of work can't be rushed. Terry cares far more about getting it right than getting it done quickly.

Now for a bit of vulnerability...

During our shoot prep, Terry shared that he wasn't exactly thrilled about being photographed or filmed. He tends to overthink and feels uncomfortable in front of the camera.

He'd much rather be talking about fabrics than talking about himself.

I get it. A lot of business owners feel that way. Me included.

But he trusted the process. We got past the awkward part, shared lots of laughs, and by the end of the day he admitted he actually had fun.

Seeing the finished photos and video didn't hurt either.

Terry's words stuck with me:
“Now I can show my clients the whole process, not just pretty pictures of the final project. “

People don't just want to see what you create.
They want to get a sense of the person they'll be working with.

The conversations. The thought process. The care you put into your work.

That's how they know you're the right person for the job.

If you've been putting off brand photos because you'd rather stay behind the scenes... You're definitely not the only one.

(Just ask Terry.)

Get to know Terry in this short video at a client’s residence. Sound on!

And don’t forget to check out his work at TSIDA (Terry Stewart Interior Design Associates)