I loved the idea of creating my own interior design business, but I wasn’t sure if I had it in me. As a self-taught designer, I knew my eye for beauty was improving, but could I really start off on my own?
All my life, I didn’t have to look far to find incredible examples of hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. My father built a very successful brokerage company from scratch, and my mother started up a business selling sugar to local restaurants and grocery stores. I loved watching them find pride in creating successful enterprises, and I dreamed of following in their footsteps.
I put my dreams on hold as I became a mom, and dedicated my life to raising my three daughters and two sons (hard work in itself). When they were finally in school, I knew it was time to shine. I started small, teaching Spanish in a local preschool, which quickly led to owning my own. I loved working with the kids, but my love for design pushed me to think bigger. Parents often complimented me on how I’d designed my own house and expressed interest in my services as a designer. I was hesitant at first, but I contacted a contractor who’d worked on my own home and shared my ideas with him.
My doubts began to disappear. My contractor enthusiastically volunteered to join my business, and I began searching for clients.
I had my two young boys help me pass out flyers to the surrounding neighborhoods, as I created my own webpage. Within two days, two of my friends had contacted and hired me. My first clients!! I was ecstatic for the opportunity, and I was determined to do my very best. My contractor and I tackled a master bathroom renovation and a stone patio for the backyard. I had to rely a lot on my gut feelings for the projects, but I worked hard and was extremely pleased with the end result.
I could do this! The business skills that I’d seen in my parents were in me too. I was good at making connections with people, and I knew that I could be successful.
After three years of hard work, I have made wonderful connections with clients, vendors, and fabricators. I now work with a team of licensed and insured contractors, structural engineers, designers, and social media specialists. They are all skilled professionals, and I love working with them. I’ve had the opportunity to design and renovate bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and several home additions. I’ve learned so much, and I’m excited to continue to expand my business!
