As an interior designer, the creative aspects of my work energize me and fill me with a great sense of accomplishment. I know very few people who can deliver the kind of work that I can. I also get to manage budgets that put my administrative skills to the test doing the best work possible with the funds my client has allocated.
This year I will manage portfolios estimated in the millions, much of that money dedicated to the purchase of goods for my clients; whatever they want or need, I can get. 'Shop 'til you drop' took a new personal meaning a few weeks back with a shopping spree of 13 hours, non-stop. To surprise someone with that 'perfect' item they will always love and treasure is difficult, but not impossible. Even more difficult is to surprise the professional shopper who has seen so much of everything. Nonetheless, there are times when even the most discriminating shopper gets the rush that comes from discovering that unexpected object one didn't even know one needed until it is in one's hand.
Shopping for a living seems like the dream job and is even the subject of a recent movie, but, shopping for a living is exhausting, not always glamorous and requires considerable experience and skill. Doing it wisely can mean saving big while still providing the clients with the high style and quality they expect.
Not surprisingly, if you want to find great home accessories, then you'll have to think outside the box. You can also save money by asking shop keepers to register you on their client's list, so that when 'privilege client' shopping events take place, you can benefit from the additional discounts usually associated with them. I try my best to encourage small businesses. I find their staff and service more personable and practical.
When you become a preferred client, stores may grant you a loyalty card. Ask your favourite spots if they offer them.
When I shop, I pay for my purchases using my new chip and pin integrated credit card. You can never have enough safety features on your cards. Mine offers an extended warranty on products and many more advantages than cash, cheque or debit. I can track my purchases when my statements come in and keep the math simple. My card also accumulates points which then become rewards.
I buy products from reputable businesses that always offer a receipt. Make sure it lists the business' name, address, phone number and tax information, this is very important if you ever need to contact the Better Business Bureau. I shop from places that offer a simple ‘return, price adjustment, exchange or credit’ policy and I like to see these options and how they work set out on the back of the receipt. Don't forget; keep the packaging intact as it may be required by the merchant in case of a return.
People on foot can score better finds than those who travel in a car. Walking offers the opportunity to go from shop to shop and browse at ease, not thinking constantly of parking spaces, meters or gas prices. My clients usually ask me why I keep several pairs of running shoes in my office. Well, I am a big walker and like comfort. So whether I’m going from shop to shop or showroom to showroom, or attending presentations and cocktail receptions, I am usually in my signature t-shirt, jeans and running shoes.
This article is in response to a question sent to me through the www.westmountexaminer.com. Thank you and keep your questions coming!
• Eros Greatti is Canada’s Top Interior Designer® 2006 and 2007. For more information or to suggest topics, he can be reached at The New Maison Eros Greatti & M Interior Design Studio & Atelier at 514-839-2565.
