MEMBERSHIP

Subject to a one-time $50 processing fee

Accredited members are qualified graduates of recognized institutions, or qualified by virtue of their many years of professional practice and displayed evidence of meeting the portfolio requirements for membership.

Accredited members have the right to vote and hold elective or appointive office in the Association.

Membership Benefits

Business Tools

• Registration with the International Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC)
• Access to the exclusive Find a Supplier Directory
• Business listing in DDA Canada’s Find A Decorator directory
• Eligible participation in DDA Canada’s annual Decorating & Design Competition
• DDA Canada Member badge for display on your website
• DDA Canada monthly e-newsletter
• Access member-only articles & publications on ddacanada.com
• Simplified registration with many industry vendors
• Mentor program

Events

• Exclusive showroom & design events
• Networking events
• CEU-eligible lectures & training

Access & Discounts

• Discount to all DDA Canada events
• Access group liability insurance – save up to 20% on insurance
• 10% discount at Hakim Optical
• Design magazine discounts
• eceive exclusive affiliate offers
• Front of the line event registration*

Affiliation

• Access member-only Facebook groups
• Association voting rights
• Eligible to take on DDA Canada leadership roles
• Inclusion in DDA Canada member directory

Eligibility

• Completion of a post-secondary program from a recognized educational institution. Submit a copy of the applicant’s transcript or relevant certificate must be included.
• Completion of some courses in the area of decorating or design and a minimum of 5 years’ work experience in the industry. Submission of a minimum 3-page presentation with at least 3 projects profiled (preferably digital) + two letters of reference and business license and business insurance if the applicant is a business owner.
• A minimum of 10 years’ work experience in the design/decorating field, with the submission of a minimum 3-page presentation with at least 3 projects profiled (preferably digital) + two letters of reference and business license and business insurance if the applicant is a business owner.

To Prepare Your Portfolio

*Please be aware: This portfolio is mandatory only if you are applying for any of the options where a portfolio is required.
Pictures of each project, including “before” shots if available

• A description of the project’s scope and budget
• An outline of the client’s requirements and how you were able to meet them
• An outline of suppliers and products used
• Digital portfolios should be submitted as part of your application. Save as a PDF and upload when prompted.
• We regret that submitted materials cannot be returned. Please do not send original portfolios or certificates.
• Portfolios will not be reviewed until full membership payment is received.
• If your application is rejected, your entire membership purchase, minus the processing fee and related taxes will be refunded to you.
• Once approved, memberships dues and processing fees are non-refundable.

Testimonial

The DDA has been a invaluable association for learning best business practices, connecting with new suppliers, and building community in a field where many people work independently or in small teams. The CEUs are well organized, informative, and highly relevant to small business owners.

As the industry and economy continue to shift, the ability to share resources, expertise, and supplier relationships within the DDA network has been especially beneficial. The value of membership is easily reflected in the savings, education, connections, and support it provides. It’s simply a great way to “do better” at any stage of your business

-Glen Peloso, Principal, Glen Peloso Design

The Affiliate Membership class will be of primary interest to businesses who supply products and services to the design industry.

Premium Affiliate Membership Benefits:

• Listing in DDA affiliate directory
• Event hosting opportunities
• E-blast feature placement
• Webinar opportunities
• Multiple regional representation

Standard Affiliate Membership Benefits:

• Affiliate directory listing
• Webinar panel opportunities
• Quarterly E-blast placement

General Benefits:

• Invitations to virtual and in-person events
• Sponsorship opportunities
• Exposure to accredited designers and students

Discover how to maximize your DDA Affiliate Membership and turn your benefits into meaningful business opportunities.

Testimonial

I’ve been a member of DDA for several years, initially joining as an Educator member, and my experience has been exceptionally positive. From the outset, I was impressed by the level of professionalism within the organization, as well as the genuine generosity of its members.

What stood out most was the willingness of experienced, practicing designers to give their time and share their knowledge. Many gladly engaged with my students, offering real-world insights and mentorship that greatly enriched the learning experience. This kind of support speaks volumes about the strength and integrity of the DDA community.

Since then, I’ve also had the opportunity to connect AyA Kitchens & Baths with the organization. Through the many benefits for Affiliate members, we’ve been able to give back to the community by hosting events for members and helping foster meaningful connections within the industry while helping to build the AyA brand.

Being part of DDA has not only enhanced my own professional journey but has also created valuable opportunities for both my students and industry peers to connect, collaborate, and grow.

-Cathy Granert, Sales supervisor at Aya Kitchen