Be prepared for the initial consultation with ideas and questions.
Be open minded to new ideas...that's why you hired a designer in the first place.
Be communicative...don't be scared to say how you really feel about a design element.
Have a concrete budget and share that with your designer and contractor.
Don't be afraid to take on some projects yourself to save some money...your designer should be able to give you some guidance and "how to's".
Be involved and sign off on every decision.
