Interior Design Fair’s mission is to create innovative designs that are smart and uniquely “you”. IDF has worked with Bay Area companies like Airbnb and StumbleUpon, and also works with residential clients, to create beautiful and functional spaces.
In addition to this beautiful design work, Interior Design Fair is also committed to its community. Based in San Francisco, Interior Design Fair creates quality jobs for employees and supports fellow small businesses. We caught up with Kassin Laverty this week. Here’s what she had to say.
PCV: We hear that you just moved offices! How are the new digs?
We did! Because of all the hiring we’ve been doing, we outgrew our last space. We are loving our new, larger office in Potrero Hill.
PCV: Wow, you must be hiring up a storm. You had five employees when you first got your PCV SAIL loan. What does the team look like now?
We now have 13 full-time staff members, along with five part-time contractors – and a new designer starting this week! It’s exciting to see the business and the team grow. At Interior Design Fair we create quality jobs for our employees to keep them happy and healthy. We offer ample paid time off, maternity/paternity leave, and a healthcare stipend – and are also proud to provide education and training for employees to help them grow professionally.
PCV: In addition to creating quality jobs, how else is IDF creating economic opportunity in your community?
One of the coolest things for us is that we are able to refer out so much business to local vendors and manufacturers. When our clients need custom projects done, we have a network of small businesses that can provide furniture, sewing, construction…you name it! When so many small businesses work together, we are able to create a healthy and vibrant local economy.
PCV: We agree! What was it like getting your SAIL loan in 2013?
At the time, banks wouldn’t lend to us; we were too new. SAIL was the right fit for us because while banks scrutinized our history, PCV looked toward the future and saw the potential in our business model. I would definitely recommend a SAIL loan to other small business owners looking to grow.
PCV: You’ve also been working with a PCV business advisor. What has that been like?
I’ve spoken with other business coaches before and they all undoubtedly know business. The PCV difference is that the advisor knows and cares about our business. When we meet with him, there’s no need to explain our situation or tell him the back story. He knows the numbers, he knows our goals and he’s ready to dive right in.
PCV: If you had to give other small business owners advice, what would it be?
Find the right business advisor. We needed someone to really dig into our financials and make honest suggestions about how we could improve. But other businesses might need a visionary or a sounding board or something different altogether! Be honest with yourself about your business needs and trust in the matching process. You know you’ve found the right advisor because working together just feels…easy!
Interesting in getting involved? Learn more about our small business loans and business advising today!