Meet Andrea Schultz | Interior Decorator and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Schultz and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andrea, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, it was for so many reasons. I loved the idea of providing a service that was in my control. The process, work ethic and the final results were all going to be up to me and how I want to run my business. My passion for design fueled that goal. I knew I wanted flexibility to be home with my family while also allowing myself to have a well run business. The design work came first which may have seemed backwards in some ways, but I knew I needed to prove to everyone that I had the talent to offer a niche service to those in need. As things sped up the business itself fell into place with a clear vision, branding and a love for what I do.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I decided to start my own interior design business, I knew it would be fun and I could put my creative energy into projects that I felt passionate about. At times I feel more excited than I think my own clients do about the final outcome of a project. The details that go into planning a space for a new design and renovation is not for the faint of heart though and I’ve learned so much along the way. In my previous career, I was responsible for a team of people and regular audits. That has carried over so much into my world now. As much as this job requires creativity, it also takes persistence, organization, and the ability to not take constructive criticism personally (which can still be a challenge). There will always be something that doesn’t go quite as planned in this industry, it’s all about making it right in the end and ensuring you have a happy client (homeowner).
I absolutely love all of my projects, some speak to me more than others for different reasons. I find that when I really connect with my clients, the outcome is truly amazing. As much as a client brings me in to provide my expertise, collaborating with them is always the greatest goal of mine. I want them to know this space is created for them, although it’s fun to see a surprise outcome, I find when a client is part of the process they truly appreciate the space and all of the efforts.
It’s my goal to create a space for my client that truly reflects who they are and what they want out of the space. Functionality is key but molding that with a design that speaks to the homeowner is what makes a space really shine.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to thank my family and friends for supporting me on this journey. Whether it was through referrals, supporting me when I needed advice and some who let me design their spaces to show off my hard work! I really need to thank my friend Meagan McPhail, wedding planner and founder of Mitten Weddings and Events. She was the person who really encouraged me to take the leap of faith, turning my passion into a career. If it wasn’t for her I’m not sure I would be in the position I am right now.
Website: https://www.andreaelizabethdesigns.com
Instagram: @andreaelizabethdesigns
Facebook: @andreaelizabethdesigns
Image Credits
Courtney Blackett Photography (photo of me only)