Curious what it’s really like to be an interior designer? Jodi Peterman of Elizabeth Erin Designs shares a real-life look at her daily routine, from client meetings and sourcing to solving on-site challenges and creating beautiful, functional spaces.
Ever wondered what an interior designer actually does in a day?
Spoiler alert: It’s a lot more than choosing paint colors and picking throw pillows. In the latest episode of the Designing in 5D podcast, Jodi Peterman—CEO and Principal Designer of Elizabeth Erin Designs—walks us through a real day in her life. From early morning planning to last-minute construction pivots, it’s a mix of strategy, creativity, and coordination.
Whether you’re considering hiring a designer or simply curious about how beautiful spaces come together, here’s a peek behind the curtain.
Early Mornings & Planning Ahead
Jodi’s day starts bright and early at 5 AM. After handling her daily to-dos like feeding the cat and prepping for the day ahead, she reviews her schedule and ensures she’s ready for any surprises. With nationwide clients and active job sites, staying organized is key. “I always have a plan B,” she says—especially during high traffic seasons in Florida or when back-to-back consultations fill her calendar.
Client Consultations & Creative Collaboration
Much of Jodi’s day involves working directly with clients. From initial consultations to on-site meetings, she focuses on understanding each client’s lifestyle, timeline, and goals.
For example, she recently met with a real estate investor in Fort Walton Beach who purchased two homes to renovate. Jodi teamed up with a local designer to fast-track the floor plans and selections to meet tight deadlines. “We had to move quickly,” she explains, “but we still made sure every design decision supported functionality first.”
Design with Function in Mind
One of Jodi’s core beliefs? Function always comes first. During a recent project, she reworked the layout of a home to ensure better bathroom spacing and kitchen flow—because what’s the point of beautiful design if it doesn’t work?
“We’re not just picking finishes,” Jodi shares. “We’re solving problems before they become expensive ones.”
Sourcing with Purpose
Another key part of the day: sourcing. But Jodi doesn’t just shop for what’s needed now—she’s always on the lookout for unique materials and pieces that can be used in future projects. Whether she’s at a showroom, a market, or walking through a design expo, she’s taking notes and snapping photos to keep her inspiration fresh.
“I find things before I need them. That way, when the right project comes up, I already have the perfect piece in mind.”
Problem Solving in Real Time
No two days are the same in the world of interior design. From budget constraints to miscommunication on job sites, Jodi shares how her team handles challenges through strong communication and proactive planning.
On a recent project, a contractor misread plans and installed countertops with no overhang—despite detailed documentation. These are the moments where Jodi’s concierge-level service shines. “We’re the bridge between the client and contractor. Our job is to protect the vision, the budget, and the timeline.”
The Magic of Install Day
After months of planning and execution, installation day is always a mix of nerves and excitement. Jodi admits she holds her breath until every piece is in place. “I’ve seen it all—from broken furniture to missing deliveries—but when it all comes together and the client walks in… that’s the moment I live for.”
The transformation isn’t just physical—it’s emotional. These are the spaces where families gather, where memories are made. And Jodi never takes that for granted.
Gratitude and Teamwork
At the end of the day, Jodi reflects on what went well and what could be improved. But one thing remains constant: her gratitude for her team. With designers, project coordinators, and assistants working behind the scenes, it’s a collective effort to bring every project to life.
“The team I have now—there’s nothing like it. Everyone shows up, goes above and beyond, and puts our clients first. That’s the heartbeat of Elizabeth Erin Designs.”
Final Thoughts
Interior design isn’t always glamorous—but it is rewarding. From detailed planning and design strategy to creative sourcing and on-site problem solving, Jodi Peterman shows what it takes to design homes that are both beautiful and livable.
🎧 Want the full story?
Listen to the full episode of Designing in 5D here: https://elizabetherindesigns.com/podcasts/
Or watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FBwHy7USbQg