Frequently Asked Questions
Interior Design Services
How long have you been practicing Interior Design?
Andrea has 8+ years of experience and a broad background working on commercial projects ranging from medical offices, lower and higher education spaces, corporate offices, private luxury garages, all the way to worship spaces. She has also worked on a wide range of residential projects ranging from small single bedroom apartments, to multimillion dollar luxury homes.
What does your process look like?
Please schedule a complimentary 30 minute intro call to discuss our services.
How much are your services?
Our design services start at $5,000 but the final price is ultimately dependent on the scope of services and the size of the project. Please schedule a complimentary 30 minute intro call to discuss your project so we can put together a project proposal for you.
Will you work with my architect, engineers, consultants and or contractor?
Yes! Cross-collaboration is essential to a successful project. We have experience working with all the disciplines that go into making a construction project possible.
Do I need to live in the Tampa Bay area to hire you?
Not at all! We can take clients from anywhere in the US and internationally. If you desire in person consultations or for us to be there on installation days, travel accommodation fees will apply.
Purchasing Ceramics
How can I make purchases?
Sales are made on a first-come, first-serve basis during shop updates. We will announce shop updates on our social media platforms, our newsletter, and the top banner on this website. We do not offer presales. Placing an item in your cart does not reserve the item, or prevent someone else from purchasing it before you check out and pay.
From time to time we will offer a limited number of made-to-order products from select collections. For these items, it will be noted as made-to-order in the product listing. Please allow for 5-8 weeks before it is shipped out. We will not start production until we have received payment.
When is your next shop update?
We post our shop updates on Alterra’s Instagram bio, newsletter and the top banner on this website. Products will only be visible at the date and time announced, and not a minute before.
How often do you restock?
Alterra is a one-woman operation at the moment, and handcrafted production takes time. We have been mostly doing in person markets for the past 2 years, but hope to be transitioning to website updates in 2025. We do not have a set timeline for how often we will be doing restocks. Check our social media platforms regularly or sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on our sales.
Do you take 'pre-orders'?
We do take pre-orders on select products, and they will be listed as 'made-to-order' on the website.
Do you take commissions?
Depending on our time availability, yes. This is more so a service we offer our Interior Design clients. Contact us at info@alterrahandmade.com and we can talk about your project.
Do you take wholesale orders?
Yes, we do. Please reach out to us for availability. We only accept Wholesale orders with a $500 minimum.
Shipping, Returns and Exchanges
Do you ship internationally?
At this time we will only be shipping to customers in the United States. Unfortunately, with current Tariffs the potential pitfalls are too much of an unknown for our small business.
How long before my package is delivered?
After your order has been placed, please allow for 3-5 business days before it ships out. The delivery time will depend on what shipping option you chose at checkout. Please allow for an additional 3-5 days to the estimate given during the holiday season, as shipping companies experience delays during these times of year. We appreciate your patience!
Do you offer returns or exchanges?
At this time, we do not offer returns or exchanges. If there is an issue with your order, contact us within 15 days of delivery at info@alterrahandmade.com.
My tracking information says that my package has been delivered, but I never received my order.
Alterra is not responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged packages. In addition, Alterra is not responsible for packages that are not received but are tracked as "delivered" - sometimes tracking information is not accurate. Call your local postal office; they might be able to help you track the item, or file a claim if it has gone missing. Once the item is shipped out from Alterra, it is out of our hands.
Product Care
Are Alterra ceramics dishwasher safe?
Yes, but we recommend hand-washing for the longevity of the piece or using the top rack for a gentler cycle.
Are Alterra ceramics microwave safe?
Yes! However, any items with gold luster cannot be microwaved, and if it has gold luster it will be noted as such in the product description.
Are Alterra ceramics food safe?
For the most part, yes.
Some glazes used on our planters are not food safe, but the application is not meant for food, so for your health and safety please use the planters for their intended purpose. If any other item is not considered food safe, this information will be noted in the product description.
Miscellaneous
Are you open to collaborations?
Always! Timeline and availability will be dependent on how busy we are, so send us an email at info@alterrahandmade.com to start the conversation. We would love to hear from our fellow creatives!
What can I expect from a handmade creation?
Alterra pieces are one of a kind, meaning there will be slight variations in shape, size, and sometimes even color. We do our best to match the pictures presented. Please be sure to read the description and measurements carefully before your order.