Trade Tales Podcast Summary Episode: Ask Us Anything: Brian Paquette on Warehouse Insurance That Works for Designers
Host: Caitlin Peterson, Editor-in-Chief of Business of Home
Guest: Brian Paquette
Release Date: August 6, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Trade Tales, Caitlin Peterson invites Brian Paquette, a seasoned interior designer and logistics enthusiast, to address a pressing concern among designers: securing adequate insurance for items stored in warehouses. The episode delves into practical solutions, systematization of business processes, and the importance of reliable partnerships in the design industry.

The Insurance Conundrum

Timestamp [00:52]:
A fellow designer presents a dilemma: ensuring insurance coverage for clients' items stored in various warehouses. The challenge lies in navigating insurance policies that often do not explicitly cover such storage, leaving designers uncertain about the best course of action.

Unnamed Designer:
"The insurance companies want... how old's the building? How much inventory is there exactly?... We've been going back and forth for weeks." [02:10]

This scenario highlights the complexity and frustration designers face when trying to protect valuable inventory without straightforward insurance options.

Brian Paquette's Systems Approach

Timestamp [05:53]:
Brian Paquette emphasizes the significance of robust systems in managing a design business. He describes systems as an ongoing, evolving process that offers freedom by reducing inconsistencies and simplifying complex operations.

Brian Paquette:
"Systems are freeing. I can do the thing that I really want to do, which is be creative and also have a good life balance." [06:25]

Paquette advocates for viewing systems not as rigid frameworks but as flexible tools that adapt to varying project demands and geographic locations.

Implementing Comprehensive Install Documentation

Timestamp [09:00]:
One of Paquette's key strategies is the creation of detailed installation documents. These documents encapsulate his meticulous approach to installations, covering everything from styling techniques to logistical checklists.

Brian Paquette:
"This is what a Brian Pocket Interiors install looks like... how I lay a throw blanket... a checklist for inventory, light bulbs, extension cords..." [12:09]

By documenting every aspect of the installation process, Paquette ensures consistency and confidence among his team, enabling seamless project execution even in his absence.

Simplifying Business Operations with Markups

Timestamp [24:45]:
Paquette discusses his straightforward pricing strategy, employing a uniform 30% markup on all billed items. This approach eliminates the confusion caused by varied markups across different services and products.

Brian Paquette:
"We put the same markup on every single thing that is billed to our clients... it's just simple as that." [26:09]

He likens his pricing model to retail practices, where additional costs are embedded within the final price, thereby simplifying client interactions and maintaining transparency.

Building Effective Partnerships with Warehouses

Timestamp [15:27]:
Addressing the original insurance question, Paquette shares his experience collaborating with warehouse partners. He underscores the importance of selecting warehouses that understand and adapt to the specific needs of interior designers.

Brian Paquette:
"Our warehouse wanted a furnishing schedule... they added insurance based on monthly inventory... We choose full coverage with no deductible." [18:03]

Paquette's partnership model ensures comprehensive coverage and minimizes risk, turning insurance into a profit center for both parties. He advises designers to cultivate strong, transparent relationships with their warehouse partners to ensure mutual success.

Advice and Key Takeaways

Timestamp [32:39]:
Paquette offers invaluable advice on managing expectations and fostering positive business relationships. He emphasizes the importance of humility, understanding human limitations, and maintaining clear communication.

Brian Paquette:
"Never pretend to understand anyone's day... focus on understanding that we are all flawed human beings." [32:42]

Additionally, he advises designers to trust their colleagues, vet partners thoroughly, and be willing to seek new partnerships if existing ones do not meet their standards.

Conclusion

This episode of Trade Tales provides interior designers with actionable insights into managing the often-overlooked aspect of warehouse insurance. Brian Paquette's emphasis on systematic business practices, transparent pricing, and strategic partnerships offers a roadmap for designers to secure their inventory effectively while maintaining creative freedom and operational efficiency.

For designers grappling with similar insurance challenges, Paquette's experiences and solutions present a compelling case for re-evaluating existing workflows and forging stronger, more reliable business relationships.

Notable Quotes:

• "Systems are freeing. I can do the thing that I really want to do, which is be creative and also have a good life balance." — Brian Paquette [06:25]

• "We put the same markup on every single thing that is billed to our clients... it's just simple as that." — Brian Paquette [26:09]

• "Never pretend to understand anyone's day... focus on understanding that we are all flawed human beings." — Brian Paquette [32:42]

For More Information:

• Podcast: Trade Tales
• Host Email: tradetales@businessofhome.com
• Website: businessofhome.com/tradetales