our Trainers
Learn from our Master Professional Trainers and Specialty Trainers who bring decades of experience and award-winning expertise in interior decorating and home staging. Whether you’re starting a new career or looking to enhance your skills, our diverse courses—available both online and live—will help you succeed. Our trainers provide personalized coaching in business start-up, client projects, social media, and marketing to ensure you turn your passion into a profitable business. Connect with us to bring specialized training right to your area!
Learn from the best
Sandra Racz
Executive Director Master Trainer
Warm, talented, and down-to-business are just a few ways students describe Sandra. With over 19 years in the industry, she knows what it takes to build a successful design business. Sandra teaches all certification courses, select continuing education classes, and hosts workshops — many for charity. 19+ years in Decorating and Staging 17+ years of Training DSA Curriculum Developer National Award Winner: Color, Decorating, and Staging Speaker at National Conferences Radio Guest Speaker Author of The Decorator’s Reference and Resource Guide and four staging books Published Writer for Industry Magazines Named RESA Top 100 Most Influential People in Home Staging Honored by IAHSP: Best of Home Staging, Industry Leadership Best of Houzz Recipient
JoAnne Lenart-Weary
Master Trainer
Industry pioneer with 40+ years. Founder of The Decorating and Staging Academy (originally One Day Decorating). Creator of Confident Color System. Appeared on HGTV, ABC-WJET-TV, Good Morning Atlanta, and many regional TV stations. Published writer for national and industry magazines. Speaker at national conferences. Author of "The Decorator's Reference and Resource Guide." Creator of the newly launched Decorating Zone for the home decorator.
Cheryl Cousins
Master Trainer
Cheryl believes every room should be a “living” room. Her passion lies in creating authentic, beautiful spaces — something she has done for clients for over 20 years. A native New Yorker and former corporate manager, she understands what it takes to switch gears and follow your passion. Cheryl now helps inspire others to do the same.
DSA Master Professional Trainer – 17+ years
Owner of Cheryl Cousins Interiors LLC (Atlanta, GA)
National Award Winner
DSA Curriculum Developer
Published Writer for Industry Magazines
Former Executive Board Member, Interior Design Society (IDS)
Former Adjunct Instructor at Georgia Perimeter College & Georgia State University
Contact: CherylRCousins@gmail.com
Phone: 404-735-8457
Katie Lockart
Executive Assistant, IT Specialist
Katie brings a wide range of talents to The Decorating and Staging Academy. She began her career in IT, working with various software companies, and now serves as the go-to contact for setting up customized iPads and handling all technical needs.
Katie supports both trainers and students throughout their learning journey, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience. Having completed all training courses herself, she understands exactly what students need and how to help them succeed.
Contact: katie@playinparkcity.com
Phone: 435-602-9524
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