Project Planning Checklist

✨ Your Project Planning Checklist

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For Interior Designers Who Dream Big & Deliver Beautifully

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Every inspired space starts with a solid plan. As a designer, your creativity is your superpower—but even the most dazzling design needs structure behind the scenes.

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This checklist is your go-to guide for planning smoother projects, happier clients, and less “oops” along the way.

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💡 1. Start with a Deep Dive: Know Your Client

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• Chat through their wishlist, lifestyle, and dream aesthetic
  
  
• Uncover their must-haves, deal-breakers, and wildest Pinterest board ideas
  
  
• Set clear budget boundaries (money talk doesn’t have to be scary!)
  
  
• Align on the overall vibe—think mood boards, not mood swings
  
  
• Get on the same page early so you can design with confidence
  
  

📅 2. Map Out the Journey: Timeline + Scope

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• Break down the project into bite-sized phases (design, sourcing, install, champagne clinks)
  
  
• Set milestone moments your client can look forward to
  
  
• Build in buffer time (because things happen)
  
  
• Decide who’s doing what, and when (no one likes guessing games)
  
  
• Keep it all in one pretty, powerful planning hub
  
  

💰 3. Budget Like a Boss

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• Create a detailed, dreamy-but-realistic budget
  
  
• Include all the things: furnishings, trades, shipping, your fabulous fee
  
  
• Plan for surprises with a contingency cushion
  
  
• Use Zena’s budget tools to keep every dollar clear and client-approved
  
  
• Check in often to stay on track (and avoid awkward convos later)
  
  

🛍️ 4. Sourcing with Style

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• Make your sourcing list room-by-room (like a shopping spree with purpose)
  
  
• Double-check lead times so you're not ghosted by a sofa
  
  
• Batch your orders to save on shipping + sanity
  
  
• Use your Zena card to easily track all business purchases
  
  
• Log orders, receipts, and deliveries like the organized queen you are
  
  

📣 5. Keep Everyone in the Loop

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• Choose your communication style (weekly emails, client portal, cute check-ins)
  
  
• Schedule regular updates so clients feel seen and supported
  
  
• Loop in vendors and trades with shared timelines and files
  
  
• Set expectations for revisions and response times—hello boundaries!
  
  
• Store everything in one tidy digital spot for easy access
  
  

🪄 6. Install Day & Final Flourishes

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• Coordinate deliveries and install like the pro you are
  
  
• Walk through the space with fresh eyes and a punch list
  
  
• Style every detail like it's going on the cover of a magazine
  
  
• Snap those portfolio-worthy photos
  
  
• Ask for a glowing review (you’ve earned it)
  
  

💫 A Final Thought:

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Project planning isn’t just practical—it’s part of the magic. When your vision is paired with clarity, the results are effortless for your client and energizing for you.

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Zena was designed to support interior designers just like you—with smart tools that keep your creativity flowing and your business glowing.

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