Yes, it’s been 3 years going from solo VA to a full agency! I recently got interviewed for a podcast and it was a great opportunity to reflect on the growth, the lessons and the trends I have experienced. If you are wondering how a VA agency works - then read on get a glimpse on the behind the scenes activity. Here is a list of some topics that came up!

As the founder of a VA agency built specifically for interior designers, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of creatives across North America. And while every designer’s business is different, I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty: most of them don’t contact me when things are calm—they reach out when they’re completely overwhelmed.

When designers finally reach out….

The majority of designers who come to me are solo studio owners who are at capacity—or beyond. They’re overworked, exhausted, and often right on the edge of burnout. It’s rare that someone reaches out proactively with a growth strategy in mind. I’d estimate maybe 10% of designers contact me in anticipation of growth or with a plan to scale. Most come to me when the work is piling up and they realize they simply can’t do it all anymore.

It’s a pattern I’ve come to recognize: designers get busy quickly, don’t prepare for the workload, and assume they can manage it all on their own. Until they can’t. Does that sound like you?

Misunderstandings about VA support

One of the most common misconceptions I hear is that working with a Virtual Assistant means committing to a long-term contract or buying a big monthly package. That’s not the case with my agency. Designers can get support for just one project or ongoing help—whatever they need.

Another big hurdle? Technology. Many designers are juggling five to ten different programs, some of which they barely use or understand. It’s no wonder they find delegating hard—it’s chaotic behind the scenes. That’s why I often start with a technical business audit before we even talk about outsourcing to a VA. A strong foundation in systems and software makes it so much easier to bring in support later.

What designers actually hire us for

When I started the agency three years ago, most of our requests were for 3D rendering. But that’s shifted. Today, our top services are:

Technical drawings (floor plans, elevations, furniture layouts)
Admin support (email, vendor communication, procurement)
3D renderings (still in demand, but no longer #1)
HoneyBook setup & automation (my most requested technical consulting service)
Project management systems (Trello, Asana, etc.)

We’re also seeing a dip in rendering requests—likely due to tighter budgets and the rise of AI tools. This change affects our VA hours and agency revenue, but we’re adapting by focusing more on construction support, admin, and systems consulting.

Designers don’t always understand what it is like working with a VA agency

Not always. I’ve seen designers on Facebook groups say they don’t want to work with an agency, though I’m not sure why—maybe they’ve had a bad experience elsewhere. What they may not realize is that my agency is unique: I’m a designer myself. I understand your business, your deadlines, and your vocabulary.

That makes a huge difference when it comes to matching you with the right VA. I can ask the right questions about your drawings—whether they’re for client presentations or construction—and pair you with someone who has the right skill set. I’m involved in the entire process, from intake to invoice, and I personally attend every intro call between designer and VA. Most agencies just send a connection email and step back. That’s not how I operate.

I personally attend every intro call between designer and VA - most agencies just send a connection email and step back. That’s not how I operate.

What makes a good interior design VA (and agency)?

A great VA is more than just technically skilled. They’re detail-oriented, proactive, and excellent communicators. They can step into your business and feel like part of your team quickly. But here’s the truth: even the best VA can only succeed if the designer knows how to delegate effectively. Clear direction and feedback go a long way.

When I vet VAs, I look at their portfolios, websites, social media, and conduct in-depth interviews. I assess not only their skills, but also their current workload and availability. Flexibility matters—if a VA is already stretched thin, I won’t bring them on.

As an agency, I offer more than just matching services. My VAs get ongoing support and training, including access to webinars, industry insights, and direct communication with me when they need guidance. If your VA is unavailable, we have backup support ready to step in—seamlessly.

Our designers also receive weekly reports from their VA, so everyone is in the loop on time spent and tasks completed. And I always do my best to match designers and VAs by time zone.

Our team of vetted VAs are used to working remotely and know the industry here in North America. AI generated image.

What designers might not realize

One of the most valuable parts of what I offer is technical consulting. Many designers don’t know what systems exist that could simplify their lives—CRM platforms, project management tools, automation software like Zapier or Make. These tools can take over repetitive admin tasks and free up mental space. But most designers “don’t know what they don’t know.” That’s where I come in.

Planning ahead makes delegating easier

One of the best times to prepare for support is before you’re at capacity. If you’re in a quiet season, know a big project is coming down the pipeline, or have family commitments that will stretch your time and energy, that’s the perfect moment to get ready. We’re more than happy to connect with you then—there’s no pressure to start right away. We can match you with a VA, get the agreement in place, and when things ramp up, all you have to do is reach out. You’ll already have support lined up and ready to go. Delegating doesn’t have to be reactive—it can be proactive, simple, and stress-free.

This agency is built by a designer, for designers

At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to support interior designers in building businesses that work—for them, their clients, and their lives. I help overworked designers find breathing room, and I help skilled VAs find meaningful, flexible work. I understand both sides because I’ve been in both roles.

This agency was built by a designer, for designers.

And that makes all the difference.

Get in touch!

When interior designers reach out to me — and what they don’t always know they need