My journey in the world of creative design began 26 years ago immediately after finishing my studies at Watkins Art Institute in the area of Decorative Painting. I approached several local designers working for well-known furniture stores in my area about the exciting new trend of decorative painting and received unexcited feedback as wallpaper was still the strong go-to for decorating walls. Because deep inside of me I knew that decorative painting will have a strong influence on the market, I did not allow myself to be discouraged. One day I get a call from a client who owned a large commercial painting business. He called to say that they are building a new home and his wife is looking to have several rooms treated with specialized painting. My big break! That collaboration opened other big referrals through his company. As I continued to build my client base by changing the look of their spaces with a stroke of my brush or a laying of texture on walls, I was often asked if I would also design their home. At the time I didn't feel confident in exercising that skill even though I knew I could do it. I simply didn't have interior design credentials. So I decided I would go back to school and get my design degree to validate what I was already doing. It took many semesters of night school to complete, but I was determined to finish what I started.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
At the time I was cultivating my business, I was also nurturing my children. I wanted to be fully vested in my kids. So, my business took a steady second place until both of my boys were in college and I could devote full time to my industry.
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
My family knew I am business driven. They supported me and encouraged me to succeed.
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
The most influential factor in the success of my business is faith!
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
Don't sweat the little stuff. It will all work out in the end.
What advice would you give to an upcoming young and old entrepreneur locally and internationally?
Find what you are good at doing and be around people that recognize and appreciates your strength.
