My Top 5 Predictions: What's Coming for Creative Business in 2026
What once worked… doesn’t anymore.What used to sell… isn’t.And the rules we built our businesses on — they’re quietly — and quickly! — changing.If you’ve been feeling like the creative business world has shifted — you’re not imagining it.Welcome to The State of Play: Creative Business in 2026 — a special three-part series on the Imprint Podcast with me, Natalie Walton, that gives you a clear look at what’s really happening in the creative industry right now.In today's episode — Part 1 — I'm sharing my top five predictions for what’s coming, what’s changing, and where the opportunity lies for those of us building creative businesses that are not only meant to last — but that feel good, and aligned with who we are, and how we want to show up in the world.Change is inevitable, and the quicker we are at embracing it, the better off we will be. The more we understand what’s coming our way, the better equipped we are to build businesses that last.Let's begin...➤ Let’s continue the conversation here — and share what resonates most with you: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~Let’s connect!Join 20k readers of This Creative Life for free on Substack.Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nataliewaltonExplore my resources and programs: nataliewalton.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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The End Of An Era & Start Of A New Chapter
Sometimes the next step isn’t about doing more — it’s about becoming who you need to be to grow and evolve.In this Raw & Unfiltered episode of the Imprint Podcast, I share what it’s like to close a chapter and create space for the next chapter to emerge with clarity.If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of your next move, or ready to create a life and business that truly feels right, this episode is for you.We’ll explore the questions, choices, and small actions that can help you move forward, without needing to have all the answers.This is for you if you want to feel more aligned with the decisions you make in your home, business and life.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Mentorship: Customised guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Creative Business Owners: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~Let’s connect!Join 20k readers of This Creative Life for free on Substack.Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nataliewaltonExplore my resources and programs: nataliewalton.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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Live Q&A with Courtney Adamo On Embracing Change at Home & In Life
How do you feel about change in your home and life? Are you excited to embrace it? Or is it something that makes you feel uneasy?Come listen to my conversation with Courtney Adamo where she asks me to share the reasons behind selling my home, and the answer she didn’t see coming.We also share how our childhood homes have shaped the ones we have today, and what we’ve learned about letting go of stuff in our spaces.Thank you to everyone who tuned in live. We hope you enjoy this conversation, and would love to hear about your relationship with your home (past and present), and the influence your childhood has had on the space that you create today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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Let’s Get Practical: Common Styling Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Beautiful design can fall flat without the right styling.Whether you’re preparing for a photoshoot, presenting to a client, or building your portfolio — styling can make or break how your work is perceived.In this popular episode of the Imprint Podcast, I reveal the most common styling mistakes I see designers and creatives make — and the simple fixes that instantly elevate a space.If you want your interiors to look more intentional, editorial, and high-end — without buying more stuff — this episode will show you how.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~THIS EPISODE FOCUSES ONWhy you should make your home the best it can be for yourselfThe value of seeing your home with fresh eyesHow our spaces can make us feelStyling tips you can use to take action todayFEATURED ON THIS EPISODESAVE YOUR SEAT for my Free Live Class ‘How To Make Your Home Beautiful — No Renovation Required’My course The Styling Masterclass - enrolments opening soon!Follow me on Instagram @nataliewalton This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
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Creating Your Own Niche: How Simone Haag Turned Her Point of View Into a Thriving Design Business
What if you didn’t need a formal qualification, a traditional path, or a big following to build a successful design business — just a clear point of view?In one of the most popular episodes of the Imprint Podcast, Simone Haag shares how she created her own niche in the design world by leaning into what made her different. With no formal training, Simone built her career from the ground up — first as an apprentice at the leading Melbourne design studio Hecker Guthrie, then as the founder of her own studio known for bold, layered interiors that reflect a highly personal style.Come listen to our conversation where we talk about Simone’s unconventional journey into design, how she turned her love of vintage into a signature strength, the way she works with clients, charges for her services, and how she built a team around her creative vision. Simone’s story is a powerful reminder that when you own your point of view, you don’t need to compete — because no one else can do what you do.If you’re trying to stand out, find your style, or carve your own niche in a crowded market, this is a must-listen.➤ Let’s continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A business growth program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~THIS EPISODE FOCUSES ONSimone’s unconventional journey to become an interior designerHer creative process working with clientsWhat she’s learnt about trusting your intuitionHow she built her businessHow you can charge for your servicesHow to value your timeWhy nicheing can provide more value to your clients and help your business growWhat it takes to grow a team, and why investing in coaching is essentialHow to overdeliver for your clientsWhy your willingness to try is one of your best resources. FEATURED ON THIS EPISODEGet your free guide here — 7 Insider Secrets to make it happen!Simone’s business Simone HaagSimone instagram @simonehaagDesign studio Hecker GuthrieHotels designed by Phillipe StarckSimone’s Whiskey room projectIDEA Awards — Designer of the yearBook Atomic Habits by James ClearPodcast The Elements by Stuart DiverMy book Style: The Art of Creating a Beautiful HomeSimone’s Phillip’s Island coastal home Angler’s ShackPodcast production: Yaga Media This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com
Imprint with Natalie Walton focuses on how to create a home and life you love. Featuring interviews and insights with inspiring creatives, entrepreneurs and experts from around the world. Imprint explores life lessons that can have a big impact on both your well-being and the world. And simplifies the decision-making process to help you design a life doing what you love. Learn more at nataliewalton.com nataliewalton.substack.com
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