Reasons you Should
1. Mistakes= money down the drain. Let's just say that unless you've had an aptitude for choosing and putting together colors, fabrics, furniture, accessories and other materials since you a little tot, considering hiring a home decorator would be smart. This is because mistakes can be costly, and who wants to live with them?
2. Guidance is always nice! Interior designers can guide you in the right direction as you try to determine what will look best in your home, go with other rooms in your home, and serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Home decorating is their job, so they are an expert at making those tough choices between beauty and function, and know all of the alternatives. Home decorators are in constant contact with vendors and suppliers, they know the best solutions for different situations, and can often get good prices, so often times it costs you as much to hire one as it does to do it on your own. They can help you make decisions that will prove wise in the long term, plus they will get the best pricing for their client.you!
Reasons you Shouldn't
1. You do have to pay a home decorator, so if you have little money to decorate with in the first place, then you probably won't be able to get a good home decorator, but you could always explore the option of trading services, etc.
2. There is a certain satisfaction that comes with knowing that the spaces you occupy and get complimented on where designed by you. So, if you think you have what it takes, and you have the time and energy to match colors, patterns, and make your home functional and beautiful, then enjoy!
If you decide for hiring a home decorator, then here are some things you should do:
1. Interview the Designer
When hiring a home decorator, you should do your homework, asking others for recommendations is okay and a good start. However, you should also review the home decorator's portfolios, check out their references, and ask about other services they may offer. Ask what professional organizations they belong to? Check and see if they have a Membership in the American Society of Interior Designers, the International Interior Design Association, the American Institute of Architects, the National Kitchen and Bath Association or other organizations? A membership to one of these organization signals professional accreditation, training and experience. Also, when choosing your designer consider the following: Does the designer return phone calls in a timely fashion? What recourse do you have if you aren't happy with a job? Is the designer affiliated with an office or just working out of a basement? Basically you want someone that doesn't just sound nice, but backs up their work with guarantees, and

2. Review Budgets
The next thing to do once you determine if your home decorator is qualified is to see if the size of your budget and job is compatible with the home decorators' schedule and typical workload. Know what you are going to spend, and basically on what, BEFORE you spend it.
3. Consider the Contract
Protect yourself by using a binding contract. If you are going to be laying out the dough, make sure you are protected. Use a professional contract, or have an attorney review the contract you write up to point out any loopholes. Never pay your designer the full amount up front.

By hiring a home decorator you have hired someone that should help you to keep your ideas in perspective, that should direct you, keep you in budget, and make your home both beautiful and functional.