1. Painter – A skilled painter is a must. The walls, floors, trim, and other treatments become the backdrop for any room design. Check references, see his/her work, and know their work ethic. Meeting the time budgeted, and maintaining a clean work environment is a basic expectation of every client. Also, get confirmation the painter is applying the paint to your standards such a lacquer finished and hand brushing versus rolling.

2. Carpet Installer – Carpet is heavy, bulky, and subject to damage when handled by amateurs. Make sure the installer has a warehouse to receive all sizes and types of product. High-end axminsters are quite different to install than regular cut pile. Can they seam 36 wide Wilton? Do they know how to best install seagrass wall-to-wall? Do they provide shoe molding after installation? These are all questions to consider above and beyond the basic work ethic and a clean worksite. This is another area where mistakes can cost you and your reputation.

3. Wallpaper Installer – A wallpaper hanger is an important piece of the puzzle as well. They must be skilled at the art of wallpaper hanging. Sure, some papers are pre-trimmed, but, you must know that an installer can handle the untrimmed, complex repeats, hang murals, etc. Wallpaper always costs a fortune so this is not advised to search for the “cheaper guy” because you will pay for it in the end. Mistakes with wallpaper multiply exponentially, and can kill a project budget. Trust me, I have done the leg work.

4. Curtain Installer – The most beautiful curtains in the world will be disappointing if not properly installed. Hire a skilled professional that has solid references.

5. Receiver and Delivery Service – Most designers do not have the need for a large retail space with a loading dock, but rely on custom manufacturers that have long lead times. Shipping to a receiver that can inspect items immediately upon receipt can save the designer a lot of time and expedite returns in the case of damaged goods. This also helps the designer avoid missing return windows. The entire process runs smoother with a dedicated and reliable receiver.

7. Upholsterer – Be sure to see the breadth of the upholsterer’s skills. I often need legs changed, swivels added, or custom pieces made. Every good upholster should be able to do basic work as well as do custom pieces such as banquettes etc. Experience, lead times, and efficiency must be vetted.

8. Refinisher and Furniture Repair – Basic refinishing and repairs are always needed. Custom pieces can often get damaged during delivery, shipping and moving – every installation has its issues. The designer needs to have these fixed fast. Of course clients don’t need to have full knowledge of minor problems, which are easily resolved.

9. Fiber services – I feel strongly about sealing most soft goods in all homes. It can prevent a slight spill from becoming a major accident. This service provider can also be a genius at stain removal. You will undoubtedly need this in a pinch when a child spills their icee on the cream velvet sofa before the client’s party.

10. Accountant – As designers, we are creative. by nature. Hire a professional to do your bookkeeping and billing. It is more efficient to spend your time with clients and selling. It helps separate you from billing questions that clients have. They can be directed to the accountant keeping you the designer, not the banker.