Creating Your Own Niche: How Simone Haag Turned Her Point of View Into a Thriving Design Business
What if you didn’t need a formal qualification, a traditional path, or a big following to build a successful design business — just a clear point of view?In one of the most popular episodes of the Imprint Podcast, Simone Haag shares how she created her own niche in the design world by leaning into what made her different. With no formal training, Simone built her career from the ground up — first as an apprentice at the leading Melbourne design studio Hecker Guthrie, then as the founder of her own studio known for bold, layered interiors that reflect a highly personal style.Come listen to our conversation where we talk about Simone’s unconventional journey into design, how she turned her love of vintage into a signature strength, the way she works with clients, charges for her services, and how she built a team around her creative vision. Simone’s story is a powerful reminder that when you own your point of view, you don’t need to compete — because no one else can do what you do.If you’re trying to stand out, find your style, or carve your own niche in a crowded market, this is a must-listen.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~THIS EPISODE FOCUSES ONSimone’s unconventional journey to become an interior designerHer creative process working with clientsWhat she’s learnt about trusting your intuitionHow she built her businessHow you can charge for your servicesHow to value your timeWhy nicheing can provide more value to your clients and help your business growWhat it takes to grow a team, and why investing in coaching is essentialHow to overdeliver for your clientsWhy your willingness to try is one of your best resources.   FEATURED ON THIS EPISODEGet your free guide here — 7 Insider Secrets to make it happen!Simone’s business Simone HaagSimone instagram @simonehaagDesign studio Hecker GuthrieHotels designed by Phillipe StarckSimone’s Whiskey room projectIDEA Awards — Designer of the yearBook Atomic Habits by James ClearPodcast The Elements by Stuart DiverMy book Style: The Art of Creating a Beautiful HomeSimone’s Phillip’s Island coastal home Angler’s ShackPodcast production: Yaga Media This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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The Real Secret to Authentic Style
While design trends are seductive, the best way to create interiors that look as good as they feel is to express your unique perspective.In one of the most loved episodes of the podcast, I share what it really means to style with authenticity — and why it’s the key to creating work that not only stands out but truly resonates.I reflect on how I moved beyond imitation in my early styling days, how I discovered my signature style, and the mindset shifts that made all the difference.Whether you're styling your home or building a design business, this episode will help you trust your vision, simplify your decisions, and create spaces that feel like you.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~Let’s connect!Join 20k readers of This Creative Life for free on Substack. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nataliewaltonExplore my resources and programs: nataliewalton.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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Making A Living From Your Love of Home: How Reena Simon Turned Her Renovation Into A Thriving New Career
What if your love of interiors could become a whole new career?In one of the most popular episodes of the Imprint Podcast, Reena Simon of Hygge for Home by Reena Simon for_home shares how she went from working in PR and raising three young children to renovating a 1960s bungalow — and building a meaningful career as an interior stylist, author, and content creator.We explore how her love of Scandinavian design helped her create a calming, thoughtful home — and connect with a global audience. She opens up about finding her voice on Instagram, writing her book Scandi Rustic, and how she approaches design decisions, motherhood, and creative boundaries.If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion into something more, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to begin — right where you are.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~THIS EPISODE FOCUSES ONReena’s passion for Scandinavian designHer 1960s bungalow renovationTrusting your gut instinct when making design decisionsWhy Reena started her interiors & design blogBlocking out the noise and focussing on what brings you joyWriting for Grand Designs MagazineThe creation of her book Scandi RusticLearning to compromise and adapt in design and in lifeHow Reena connects with people through InstagramBuilding confidence later in lifeFEATURED ON THIS EPISODEMy new book STYLE - The Art of Creating a Beautiful Home now available for pre-orderReena’s instagram @hygge_for_homeReena’s blog and websiteReena & co-author Rebecca’s book Scandi RusticGrand Designs MagazineCanon cameraAdobe LightroomWhere the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owen This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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Why I’m Simplifying My Business To Focus on Less But Better
We’ve all heard the phrase work smarter, not harder — but what does that actually look like in real life?In this behind-the-scenes episode, I’m sharing why I’ve chosen to simplify my business — and how that decision is helping me create more space for what matters most. From streamlining my offers and systems, to refining how I spend my time and where I show up, this new season is all about clarity, focus, and alignment.You’ll hear the real changes I’ve made — including why I’m pressing pause on the podcast (for now) — and how I’m creating deeper impact inside Design & Grow and my 1:1 mentorships, while also spending more time connecting through my free weekly newsletter on Substack.If you’ve been feeling stretched, scattered, or out of sync with your business, this episode will give you both permission and practical ideas to simplify in a way that supports your life — not competes with it.THIS EPISODE FOCUSES ONThe personal and professional changes shaping this seasonHow she’s shifted Design & Grow for deeper connectionWhy Substack is now the primary home for contentWhat simplifying her tech, team, and time has made possibleFEATURED ON THIS EPISODENatalie Walton MentorshipThe Styling Playbook for Interior DesignersNatalie Walton InstagramFree live training - The Confident StylistNatalie Walton - Design & Grow Coaching ProgramNatalie Walton - The Styling Masterclass This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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The Power of Less: Shira Gill on Simplifying Your Life
One of the most powerful ways to create the results you want in your life is to get clarity on what matters most. This can begin in the home.In one of the most popular episodes of the Imprint Podcast, home organiser and bestselling author Shira Gill shares her five-step method to help you simplify your space, let go of the excess, and create a home that supports your values.We talk about overcoming guilt, teaching kids to edit their belongings, and how Shira built a thriving business from scratch — starting with nothing but a clear intention. Whether you're craving calm, clarity, or a fresh start, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools to begin.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~Let’s connect!Join 20k readers of This Creative Life for free on Substack. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nataliewaltonExplore my resources and programs: nataliewalton.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
Imprint with Natalie Walton focuses on how to create a home and life you love. Featuring interviews and insights with inspiring creatives, entrepreneurs and experts from around the world. Imprint explores life lessons that can have a big impact on both your well-being and the world. And simplifies the decision-making process to help you design a life doing what you love. Learn more at nataliewalton.com nataliewalton.substack.com
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