Interior Design Fair's mission is to create innovative designs which are smart and uniquely “you”. IDF has worked with Bay Area the likes of Airbnb and StumbleUpon, and also works with residential clients, to create beautiful and functional spaces.
In accessory for this beautiful design work, Interior Design Fair is also committed to its community. Based in San Francisco, Interior planning Fair creates quality jobs for workers and supports fellow smaller businesses. We swept up with Kassin Laverty this week. This is what she'd to say.
PCV: We hear that you just moved offices! How are the new digs?
We did! Due to all the hiring we have been doing, we outgrew our last space. We're loving our new, larger office in Potrero Hill.
PCV: Wow, you must be hiring up bad weather. You had five employees when you first got your PCV SAIL loan. What does the team seem like now?
We are in possession of 13 full-time staff members, together with five part-time contractors – and a new designer starting now! It's exciting to see the business and also the team grow. At Interior planning Fair we create quality jobs for our employees to keep them healthy and happy. We provide ample paid time off work, maternity/paternity leave, and a healthcare stipend – and are generally proud to provide education and training for employees to help them grow professionally.
PCV: Along with creating quality jobs, how else is IDF creating economic opportunity in your community?
One from the coolest things for us is that we could refer out a lot business to local vendors and manufacturers. When our clients need custom projects done, there exists a network of smaller businesses that can provide furniture, sewing, construction-you name it! When so many small businesses interact, we could create a healthy and vibrant local economy.
PCV: We agree! That which was it like having your SAIL loan in 2022?
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 near future and saw the potential within our business design. I would definitely recommend a SAIL loan to other small businesses looking to grow.
PCV: You've also been working with a PCV business advisor. What's that been like?
I've spoken with other business coaches before and they all undoubtedly know business. The PCV difference would be that the advisor knows and cares about our business. When we meet with him, you shouldn't have to explain our situation or simply tell him the back story. They know the numbers, they know our goals and he's prepared to dive in.
PCV: When you give other small businesses advice, what can it's?
Find the right business advisor. We needed anyone to really dig into our financials and make honest information on the way we could improve. But other manufacturers may need a visionary or a sounding board or something like that different altogether! Be honest on your own regarding your small business and trust in the matching process. You realize you've found the best advisor because working together just feels-easy!
Interesting to get involved? Learn more about our small company loans and business advising today!
