A: Jessica, the biggest problem facing design on TV is the need to produce quick episodes fast and cheap. That is why most design shows you see take place over 2 days and usualy don’t involve the homeowner. With my show, the homeowners paid for their projects and by doing that, we went at their pace. I also insisted that my homeowners were an active part of the design process. That is what happens in any real design job. So at the end of the day, the fact that one of my episodes could take 8 months to complete (think about it, most custom furniture takes 8 weeks, then there is the construction delays - which always happen) I was always working on at least 18 projects at the same time. Because of all of this, I had no time for my private practice and my show was extremely expensive to produce. That is why you see more fast, small budget shows; they can do 4-5 of them for one of mine.

In 1995 when I was still a student, I heard Barbara Barry speak about her design business. I remember sitting in the audience in complete admiration of her. She was so inspirational and I would dream of being successful like her. Fast forward to this year when I found myself sitting next to her on a stage in NYC. We were chosen by American Express to discuss our design success stories. Not only was this a huge honor, but more so, it is the opportunities I’m given to talk to students who are in the same shoes I stood in 12 years ago. I always end my talk with the story of Barbara and me sharing the same stage. Then I tell them that I expect to be on stage with them in the near future, sharing their success story. Being able to influence young designers is the biggest honor I continue to cherish.

Barbara Barry with me at the American Express Designs on Success event in NYC

Alaina, In 2008 I hope to create a better balance between my work life and personal life.

Hi Joel and Marie - this is the most frequently asked question. You will see me on TV again. At the moment, I can not say where or when. I plan to continue bringing good design to everyone through television and doing it right takes time.

Sam - there is no society of celebrity designers. I have met many of other designers that you see on TV, but since most of them are in other states, I don’t run into them as often as you’d think.

I get to hang out with other TV designers when I’m at press events like this one in NY.

Karen McAloon, Jill Cordes, Paula Abdul and me at an HGTV publicity event.