Once upon a time

I used to consider myself a "Cabinet Designer."

I've traded my heels, slacks, and White House|Black Market shirts for jeans and t-shirts.  With that come a title change.  Today I consider myself a "receptionist/cabinet salesperson"  Why the title change?  Could it be the industry changing?  I've read so many articles talking about the consumers leaning more towards functionality in place of the extravagance.  Everyone is watching their spending, a lot of clients I meet with are even afraid to submit a request for an estimate for fear of the price.  Instead of designing cabinetry for gorgeous custom homes, I'm placing boxes for mediocre spec houses.

I've gone from beautiful vanities....

To simple vanities....

And extravagant kitchens....

To bare bones kitchens...

I still love to see finished products, even if it is on a $2000 cabinet job, but I would much rather see the finished product of a design that took me months and hours upon hours to create.  I miss getting to know the customers life details to help them design a beautiful, yet functional space for their lifestyle.  Lately my relationship with customers is based on price.  How inexpensive can they get the cabinets?  When Tom and I were wandering through houses two weeks ago, even the more expensive houses had the cheapest finishes in them.  I'm wondering if this is going to go on for a long time or if it will soon change?  Let's hope it starts turning around so I can go back to designing cabinets!  

Bottom line: my industry has become boring, I need a high end cabinet fix before I lose my mind.  :)