About this episode
Send a textWelcome to Day 5 of the Christmas Advent Calendar podcast, and we are bringing another inspiring episode with another fabulous guest. I’m your host, Lisa-Marie Elkhadraoui, Business coach and mentor, empowering women through business strategy and soulful mindset work, and today we’re diving into a conversation that every designer, whether you’re just starting or scaling your studio, truly needs to hear.Joining me is the brilliant Elizabeth Kelly, a respected voice in the interiors industry who brings a wealth of insight on what it really takes to stay ahead in a field that evolves so quickly. Elizabeth is passionate about the importance of trade shows, supplier relationships, and ongoing professional development especially through procurement and she’s here to share exactly why showing up matters.In this episode, Elizabeth and I explore: Why attending trade shows is one of the smartest investments you can make as a designer How face-to-face networking with suppliers can open doors, deepen trust, and fast-track your business growth The value of seeing products firsthand so you can specify with confidence Why continuous learning and professional curiosity are non-negotiables in a competitive design landscape How engaging with account managers gives you insider knowledge, trend awareness, and new opportunities And why making time for the industry, even when your schedule is full, pays off tenfold in credibility, expertise, and client resultsThis conversation is a reminder that the most successful designers aren’t just creative, they are informed, connected, and proactive. The relationships you build, the products you understand, and the suppliers you trust become part of your professional foundation.Dive into Elizabeth’s website and world HERE Follow The Procurement Studio Instagram page HERE Join Lisa-marie and the women in the Design Boss Diary family, follow on Instagram HERE and find more about how you can work with Lisa in 2026. Join me in Birmingham on Friday 23th & Saturday 24th January 2026 for a luxury two-day retreat, Strategy & Soul.Two days that will prepare you for your most powerful year yet.Find out more HEREThis and other episodes are on our YouTube channel HEREOur Christmas GiveawayTo celebrate Seaso
