If you were to ask me around the time we initially purchased our home in May 2019, if I considered myself to be even remotely crafety or a skilled DIYer, I’d certainly reply NO. In fact, the thought of DIY projects intimidated me tremendously and I was so sure that I wouldn’t want any parts of anything that required me getting down, dirty, crafety or handy. Well, what a difference a year makes!
Since we’ve been in our home, I’ve been able to tackle the following DIYs:
-Painted our Front Door
-I made my own set of Cassa Beads/Styling Beads
-I worked on our Landscape
-I installed our Modern House Numbers
-I customized our console table
Check out the DIY and Projects Highlight on the Spirit & Feathers Instagram account to see me in action!
While there’s always a bit of hesitation leading up to starting those projects with the number one thought being: Will this look good? Quite honestly, I amaze myself when it comes to tackling a DIY project and it being a successful job but I am also very cautious when it comes to deciding which projects I want to complete and which projects I’d rather outsource the job too.
Tread Lightly…
When it comes to DIY, poor craftsmanship and sloppy execution is what you want to to avoid entirely. If you know you’re not a crafty person with no precision to detail or patience then I’d avoid a DIY project at all cost…or it’ll cost ya. Remember that a DIY that is poorly executed is a reflection of your space. You don’t want to devalue or cheapen your space with something that is not up to par so to speak. If you decide to tackle a DIY, remember that you want to do so in mind with the thought of it looking professionally done.
Level of Complexity
There are tons of DIY influencers and bloggers out there absolutely crushing the DIY game. There using saw machines and complex electric power tools to transform spaces and create new ones. As for me? I’m not there yet, which brings me to my next point. Assess your level of confidence based on the level of complexity of the project. I usually stick to small to medium level of complexity when it comes to DIY because that’s what I feel comfortable doing at this time. That can certainly change as I complete more projects and learn more but, for now I know where my strength lies.Don’t set yourself for failure by tackling something that is way beyond your craft wheelhouse. Start small.
Prepare
I think preparation is key when it comes to a successful DIY project and that may involve doing a little bit of research beforehand. Know what supplies you’ll need to purchase and out of those supplies best brands or tools. Estimate how long the project may take so you can gauge the best time of day for you to start. Ask for tips from others that have completed the project on what worked or what they would have done better. I never recommend going into a DIY project blindly or cutting corners especially if you’re new to the DIY world.
DIY Cost of Supplies
Sometimes (not all the time), a DIY project can be costly and therefore it may be worth having a professional come in and complete the job. When doing your research on your next DIY project also be sure to assess the cost associated with your projects. Are you about to shell out $900 on the materials needed for the project when the job can be done for $750? Make sure it makes sense.
I hope this blog is helpful as you decide which projects you’d like to take on in your home. Feel free to leave a comment below on what else you consider when DIYing.
xx
Sam
-What is a virtual assistant?
A Virtual Assistant is an independent contractor who completes administrative tasks and business support services from a remote location.
-What are the different packages and their investments?
TES offers 3 different packages: The Executive Petite 15 hours a week - The Executive Deluxe 20 hours a week - The Executive Premium 25 hours a week. Each package is $33 per hour.
-What are your hours of operation?
Business operations are Monday-Friday 9am-6pm (excluding major holidays) with special exceptions made for clients as needed.
-What kind of businesses do you support?
TES provides support to entrepreneurial growing businesses and brands. We're vertical agnostic and have successfully worked with graphic designers, wedding planners, photographers, stationary designers, and interior designers.
What are the communication channels?
We communicate with out clients by email, phone/text, or web conferencing (Google Meets or ZOOM) during hours of operation only.
-Is there a trial period?
Our Executive Petite package allows our clients to pilot virtual assistant services to determine suitability and like all of our packages, is a one month commitment.
-What programs do you work with?
Our team is tech-savvy working with programs like 17Hats, Slack, BaseCamp, Google Workplace, Dubsado, HoneyBook, Asana, Trello, Monday.com, Canva, and Tailwind to name a few.
-How does billing work?
Clients are billed upfront on a month to month basis with a PayPal invoice will be sent at the 1st of every month. For clients beginning their services before or after the 1st of the month, they will be invoiced a prorated amount.
-How do I Pay for my Invoice?
Invoice is to be paid via PayPal and PayPal accepts all major credit & debit cards, checks, and bank accounts. You do not need a PayPal account to pay for your invoice.
-Will I work exclusively with Sam Harris?
At The Executive Studio, we are able to deliver exceptional quality work with the collaborative efforts of a team. Sam Harris is the principal virtual assistant for The Executive Studio and will take ownership over all clients however, on occasion for special projects, where domain expertise is required or in event of Sam's absence, assistance from another team member will be provided.
-How do I book a consultation?
To book a consultation, please email hello@theexecutivestudiova.com. A consultation by phone or video conferencing is required before we can officially begin the process of securing you as a client. With an intentional approach to our business, we like to ensure that we can serve our clients in the capacity they need and during our exploratory scoping call, this provides insight and gap analysis to how we can support.
This business is your baby.
I want you to do what feels right
and not based off a decision that feels impulsive or premature.
