"Tapestry Beige? Yes or No?! Should it take three days to respond to this question?" ranted a friend, completely frustrated with the responsiveness of the designer she hired to help with her soon-to-be-stunning Tanglewood renovation.

I have two girlfriends suffering from designer issues. Julia's large Memorial renovation began over a year ago and I'm not certain it's actually completed to her satisfaction. [Sigh.] Elizabeth has a more manageable scope of work, but a tight deadline to get moved in.

Both girls hired professional interior designers and both girls called me with the same flustered conversation and asking for confirmation that terminating services was the right move. My heart sinks as I empathize with their frustration and disappointment over color choices, material pricing, and general lack of professionalism. After listening, I have to agree it's time to move on.

I have a very short soap box to shout from because I am not a full-service designer. I specialize in floor plans, cabinetry and kitchens because those are what I'm really good at! I do not accept jobs that I do not have time for or that I do not have the capability to execute with excellence. Ladies and Gents, please be mindful and realistic when you hire any professional to assist with your home projects. Ask for references. Ask for pictures of their work. Ask what you get as a client. Make sure your expectations clear so everyone is on the same page!

I hope these tips help you in deciding on which designer to hire! In the end, listen to your instincts, they're usually right.