Attendee Profile: Susan Jamieson of Bridget Beari Designs

I started blogging as away to document all the crazy things that happen to me, inspire me, and thrill me in this world of interior design. I started my first blog in July of 2007 to record a before and after kitchen makeover. From there it has evolved to include videos showcasing my travels and projects outside the country, as well as my tips for planning a dinner party.

My subscribers are fascinated by the life of an interior designer. Most readers like to see the glamour–the beautiful interiors and high-end furniture—but I aim to show everything: the good (photos and videos of my design and others who I admire), the bad (frustration when things don’t go as planned, and how I deal with it) and the unusual (the often atypical places where I find my inspiration.) I have always said “good design is good design” and I am willing to learn, share and explore all avenues to find it.

Without my blog, I don’t think I would generated the media presence I now have—from features in Traditional Home and Southern Living as well as a guest-starring role on TLC’s Restorer Guy. Being from Virginia is wonderful but it does not have the same draw as NYC or L.A. The Bridget Beari blog has made it possible for others around the country and the world to see my work and get inspired. I am thrilled by the process of design and have been working on a series of reality videos that take the viewer from the initial concept to office life, contractor strife and the final install. It’s funny, eye opening, and beautiful all at the same time. All to be viewed on the Bridget Beari channel. Who knew you could have your own TV channel? This is the power of social media.

I have also been able to capitalize on the social opportunities by teaming up with Sally Fretwell Paints to create my own paint line, designing my own line of custom furniture, and by meeting some of today’s stars of design. Everyone who I meet inspires me to do more, see more and create better interiors.

At the Design Bloggers Conference I hope to be inspired, make connections for future collaborations and put faces to the blog names I read. Design is not about living in a vacuum but about opening yourself up to experiences so the creativity can flow.