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The Designer’s Lounge Retreat

The Designer's Lounge Retreat is where creative ambition meets real-world business strategy in a setting that’s equal parts luxe and laid-back. We’re pulling back the (super custom) curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving, process-driven design firm while giving you space to exhale, connect and reset. Come for the clarity, stay for the community.

The logistics.

📍Milford, Connecticut

🎟️ $3,800 until July1

🗓️ October 14-16th

Milford is a coastal gem where New England charm meets laid-back luxury. With its walkable downtown, historic homes, and over 17 miles of shoreline, it’s the kind of place where you can grab oysters by the water after a morning of boutique browsing. It’s effortlessly pretty—and an easy train ride from both NYC & Boston.

DAY ONE

  • It’s not just about pretty plans—it’s about precision that gets you booked again and again.
    In this session, our speaker pulls back the curtain on her signature drawing set—the one that makes contractors want to work with her. You’ll learn how she structures her construction documents to eliminate drama, keep builds smooth, and elevate her perceived value. This isn’t theory—it’s the strategic, scalable system that helped her level up her business (and her rates). Walk away with real templates, checklists, and insider know-how that will change how you deliver forever.

  • Design-savvy isn’t enough—you need a contract that speaks fluent business.
    Led by a legal pro who specializes in the interior design industry, this session will show you how to turn your contract into your most powerful business tool. We’re talking real-world clauses that prevent scope creep, policies that protect your fees, and steps you must take before you ever sign. If you’ve ever said “I just need a better contract”—this is where your clarity (and confidence) begins.

  • Hiring shouldn’t feel like gambling.
    Learn what roles to hire for first, what to outsource vs. bring in-house, and how to avoid the most common (and expensive) hiring mistakes. This session will break down what actually works when building a small but mighty team—and how to structure support that helps you grow without giving up your sanity. Whether you're making your first hire or your fifth, this convo is packed with clarity.

  • You don’t need a big ad spend—you need a smart strategy.
    This session is for designers ready to turn their scroll time into serious ROI. We’ll walk through how to use Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn to actually attract clients—not just likes. You’ll learn how to create content that converts, leverage trends without chasing them, and build visibility that compounds over time. No fluff. No overwhelm. Just sharp, proven tactics you can start using immediately.

DAY TWO

  • Chaos is not a business model.
    In this game-changing keynote, you’ll learn how to structure your design business with systems that support real growth. From onboarding to install day, we’re diving into Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that reduce decision fatigue, eliminate inefficiencies, and make scaling feel less like a grind. Whether you’re solo or have a small team, these are the tools that help you get your time back—and your margins up.

  • One income stream is too close to none.
    This session is for designers ready to add revenue streams that make sense for their brand and audience. Think affiliate marketing, digital products, virtual design, vacation rental styling, and more. You’ll learn what actually works, what to skip, and how to build passive or semi-passive income that doesn’t compromise your core design work. The goal? More income, more impact, same signature style.

  • Work smarter, not harder. For real this time.
    This is the no-fluff profitability session every designer needs. We’ll unpack the small but mighty shifts that can drive real margin growth—from pricing structure and procurement strategies to tech tools that trim the fat. It’s about clarity, not cutting corners. If you’re tired of doing more for less, this session will help you reverse that trend—fast.

  • AI won’t replace designers. But designers who use AI? They’ll win.
    This session is your shortcut to understanding how AI can streamline your workflow, spark creativity, and save you hours a week. From concept development to client presentations and project planning, we’ll cover practical use cases and platforms that are already transforming the way savvy studios work. You’ll leave with tools, prompts, and mindset shifts to start using AI as your newest (and smartest) team member.

DAY THREE

  • Design isn’t done at install—it’s done when the contractor says it’s done.
    In this powerhouse keynote, you’ll get a crash course in construction management from a seasoned industry pro. We’re talking timelines, trades, red flags, and real-life lessons learned the hard way—so you don’t have to. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to lead with authority, collaborate effectively with contractors, and avoid the project pitfalls that can derail even the best design. If you want to show up as the true project lead, this session will show you how.

  • Let go of the busywork. Focus on the big moves.
    This session is for designers ready to stop being the bottleneck in their own business. You’ll learn exactly what to outsource, how to find qualified support (from renderings and CAD to virtual assistants), and the systems to put in place so nothing falls through the cracks. This is how you grow without hiring a full-time team—and without working 60-hour weeks. More clarity, more bandwidth, more business.

FAQs

I’m traveling from out of town, how do I get to Milford?

Train, car or plane! We put together this basic document to determine the best way to get here.

Where should I stay?

We are curating a list of gorg AirBnBs on the water in Milford + options downtown (think : walk to the harbor, the shops and all the good restaurants if you’re staying a little extra and want that!)

If you want to book ASAP just email Meredith and she’ll get you a recommendation before the list comes out.

What’s included in the investment?

All breakfast, lunch & dinner (+ an ice cream truck cause like .. duh we are always on brand). We’ll have a snack station for you too so no one goes hangry.

Access to the Content Studio (1:1 session with the photographer for your own content needs) at the venue + pictures and video of the event. Reels, anyone!?

Who is speaking?

Speakers will be announced one-by-one (umm they deserve their spotlight too!!) the week of June 10th.
We’ll update this after all speakers have been announced.

So many options, why TDLR?

You’re going to leave the retreat with a new outlook on the design business. Whether you’re brand new or a vet, it’s going to open your mind to new ways of approaching design & your process.

We are also ensuring the speakers are not only approachable, but an open book. A legit live “Ask Me Anything” whenever you see them.

Why is networking & community so important?

“It is important because it helps build professional relationships, opens doors to new opportunities, and facilitates the exchange of ideas and best practices. It also aids in career development, personal growth, and business success.” - Michael Page