M. Studio Interiors Blog

My Weight Loss Journey

2015-05-04T10:34:00.001-07:00

Five years ago I decided I needed to make a change regarding my weight and my overall health. I've only gotten focused to really do so this year. My actions had to catch up with my very pure intentions to do something about the unhappiness I was feeling with being overweight. I don't share the story of always being overweight. I wasn't. I was actually very thin growing up and then my metabolism just slowed down. I couldn't eat whatever I wanted and still stay the same size anymore. I also felt like I was always smaller than what was really the reality. When I looked at myself in the mirror with clothes on, I still had a shape so I felt like I was fine. If only I would have just started then, who knows where I could be.

But in today's timeline, I started fumbling around at the gym not really knowing what I was doing. I started going back to the basics of what I thought was clean eating not realizing that even some good food isn't good for you either. That one was a shock...

Finally, I found what I feel is working for me which is a strength and conditioning program consisting mainly of a mix of aerobic exercise, body weight exercises, and Olympic weight lifting, called Crossfit.

For a person with absolutely no athletic background whatsoever, I can get thru a strenuous workout without feeling like I'm going to die. It gives me a great sweat and I can finally see and feel muscles in my body that I've never had. Through the program, I've also found what works for my body food wise. As I mentioned earlier, I'm not one of those people that can eat fruit all day, everyday, thinking I'm eating clean. I've had to be very conscious about what types of fruit I eat if I want to see results. I also only drink one cup of coffee everyday (everyone has a vice) and a gallon of water....erh'day.

Overall, I'm understanding why the phrase weight loss journey was coined...

It's all about trial and error and finding out and THEN doing what works for you.

This past weekend, I've never felt sexier and proud of the progress I've made thus far. I was expecting a lot more pats on the back from my family and close love ones but the one opinion that truly mattered the most was mine. I felt on top of the world for how I looked in the mirror. I was proud of me and that ends with a period.

If I had to compare, I'll say that I'm at the half way point in my journey. And I will still celebrate because half there is still almost there and far away from the beginning. I'm still laps ahead of those that are doing absolutely nothing to get healthier. At first I couldn't tell if any of this was working, but the tough workouts and 5 am runs, and not over-indulging in sweet tea and fried wings, are truly paying off. I can finally SEE it. So I will continue to take as many selfies as I want and admire the progression and dedication I've made knowing that giving up on myself is no longer an option. And if I can inspire just one person on the way, that ain't half bad either!

In the LAB cooking...

Long way to go but so far from where I was!
And NO Spanks!

Just happy to be here!

Taps mic...Plus Simple Foundation Products for a Glow-y and Natural Look!

2015-04-11T18:01:00.001-07:00

Anyone there? Probably not because Google believes I'm dead. But I'm not. I'm here and I'm alive. My blog on the other hand...

I don't know why I do this to myself. I know how therapeutic writing is and I love connecting with the blogging community but I always stall. I think it's because I'm not always clear on what direction I want to take my blog and who exactly I would like to reach. Things I love are positive women, clean and colorful design, cool gadgets and techs, stylish chics, clean makeup, fitness, parenting, small businesses and spirituality. So I guess that sounds more like a lifestyle blog I guess...At any rate, I'm going to figure it out eventually. But I'm going to make it a point to check in and stay consistent. Consistency is the key!

So I'll start this off with a random post about makeup and how I've found the perfect glow-y look. I don't have much time in the mornings since we have to get moving so early. So I needed a routine that was fairly quick and fairly inexpensive so that I can maintain it. I've cut my makeup budget in half by mixing drug store products with higher end makeup. It may seem like a lot but it really isn't compared to some foundation routines. Once you get a system in place then it is easy peasy! So Alas...

The Essentials

The Results!

This is after a full day of wear. I applied my makeup at 6:00 am the morning of!

Primer : E.L.F. Mineral Infused Primer

Foundation : Revlon 24 Color Stay

Concealer : LA Girl Pro Concealer

Kat Von D Contour Kit

Highlight : Ben Nye Banana Powder

Blush : Mac Love Joy

Bronzer : Bobbi Brown Shimmering Brick

Setting Powder : Tarte Translucent Powder

Finishing Spray : NYX Finishing Spray in Matte

P.S. Shout out to my fellow blogger and real life friend Toya from for putting me on to the foundation. It really is comparable to Mac's Studio Fix but over half of the cost!

The Gratitude Challenge

2014-09-01T07:06:00.002-07:00

As I lay here listening to my love slumber I can't help but feel grateful for life and love.

I'm learning quickly that life is too short to hold grudges or hold on to past hurts or not allow yourself to be loved. Choosing to love and be grateful everyday is not easy at first but it's worth it. It has a way of making everything that's wrong in your life seem alright.

My daughter is in the other room sleeping, peacefully - that's way more important than the anxieties I have about not having everything I would like to have for her first day of school tomorrow. She has what she needs and she will be ok. The peace in knowing that, is what I am eternally grateful for.

As cliche as it may be, there really is something about focusing on the positive than the negative. Counting your blessings instead of what you don't have. Finding something to be grateful for in the midst of your trials and troubles. Finding someone to serve to bring you out of your own self. There is power in all of this - that honestly benefits you the most.

Do I have more money in the bank to do everything I want? Nope. Am I flourishing in my business so much that I can stop working my soul sucking bridge today? Nope. But what I am flourishing in is peace, love and a little bit of patience with a whole lotta faith. And that's a winning combo to confirm I'm on my way!

If you follow me on social media then you know for the month of September I am posting something I am grateful for everyday. I challenge you to join me as this will unlock so many reasons to smile and feel good about your life wherever you are!

Tell me now, what are some things you are grateful for?

3 Simple Tips to Update A Living Room On A Budget

2014-08-28T04:34:00.000-07:00

When it comes to updating a living room on a budget, I feel that people tend to over complicate it. Choose your local Home Goods, Target or TJ Maxx and just make it do what it do! But on a budget!

My clients featured today did exactly that for under $100! They already had the plants and the book shelf that you see here. They just wanted to accessorize the bookshelf and wanted to update the living to look more refined and intentional.

I could handle that with these 3 simple tips!

Organize
Cleanliness costs nothing. Put things in their proper places. Just putting things where they go will not only clear your space, but clear your mind!

Personalize
Bring everything into your living room that represents you. Don't be afraid to show your personality throughout your space by adding your favorite colors or family photos. I brought in candles and personal trinkets from other rooms to make the living room feel a bit more homey.

Accesorize
This is where most of the budget went. Money was spent on textured pillows, gold accents, picture frames and decorative organizers to hide books, dvds, etc. Accessorizing is so important. It gives the living a finished and more cohesive look.

You can apply these 3 simple tips with any room in your space. If you wait on a a set amount of money to start updating your place, you will never update your place. If you find that it's just not in the budget at moment, then apply the first two tips. Organize and Personalize and you'll be half way there!

If you would love a more updated look for your space, book me today and lets get started!

The Ultimate Guide to Staying Inspired While Working a Bridge Job

2014-08-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

Interior Design School: A place where you work on your dream projects with your dream clients with your dream no budget, budget.

Reality: A place where none of that happens.

Instead you are met with deadlines on top of deadlines. You are now the fastest Cad monkey in your firm shuffling construction documents and your social life consists of checking social media via your phone while grabbing your 5th latte of the day.

I don't mean to make it sound ultra drab but, well - it kind of can be. At least for me it was, which has confirmed that I may not be the most ideal person to continue to work for someone else for the rest of my life. I have my own dreams and my own goals regarding business that is tied up in my personal definition of what success looks like to me. I just don't feel successful doing mediocre work on mediocre projects working for a mediocre company meeting someone else deadline. As over dramatic as this sounds, it's plain old soul sucking.

However. I'm nobody's fool. And Mama gotta to eat and I have to feed a little human.

So.

Referring to these lack luster jobs as bridge jobs has helped me gain perspective. Clearly, it would be nice to be able to clothe, house and feed myself while I'm chasing my 'dream everything business', so I must work, especially if I want to remain a bootstrap, brick by brick business.

The thing is, when you know that there is something greater for you out there, you tend to lose motivation that cripples you from even getting out of the bed to go to that bridge job-let alone remaining inspired and full of creatives ideas to make your business grow. It can be draining and not leave room for anything else outside of staring out the window asking yourself why is this my life?

So that leads me into these tried and true tips that have worked for me in remaining inspired while working for someone else:

1. Find That Motivation

Whatever that is for you, find it. Be it God, self help books, therapy. Find what keeps you waking up in the morning and putting your best foot forward. For me, what has helped is instead of listening to Pandora or Spotify, I started listening to podcasts and videos by other creative business entrepreneurs. I would listen as I worked. Win/Win. I'm gaining knowledge on my business while still catering to my bridge job. It really helps with getting thru the day. My personal favorites are Jess Lively-she's a consulting based business that focuses on setting intention for your business and personal life. Grace Bonney who is the creator of Design Sponge. Her podcasts feature other creative business entrepreneurs that dives into anything from how they got started to business lessons learned. And last but certainly not least, Marie Forleo-a woman that is dedicated to helping you create the business and life you love. Really. It's her tag line.

Also, seek after a mentor within your niche, with or without their knowledge. Meaning you can have a real life mentor or a mentor in your head! When the opportunity presents itself let him/her know how much you are inspired by their work and ask to buy them a cup of coffee to have quick chat if you're starting off like me or suggest to pay for their time if you're more established. No matter where you are in business, we can all use a mentor. My mentor in my head is Alycia of Mupplebee. She is an Interior Designer teaching other Interior Designs how to start, manage and run a successful business. The design gods were really looking out for your girl when I ~~found~~ read:stalked her! I've already reached out to her and she's super nice and encouraging! One day I will take her out of my head and turn her into my real life mentor. I'm loving all of the information I'm receiving so far.

2. Find Your Spiritual Source

This kind of/sort of ties into #1 in regards to finding a source that is higher than yourself. Stepping out on your own is scarey.com. It is imperative that you have something or someone that you pray to in order to combat the overwhelming fear that you will feel. For me, I use the Original G! Good old God himself. Without him, I would not be able to hold my crap together at all. I rely on praying and speaking affirmations over my life to combat the fear of the unknown. I also like to connect with spiritual mature people that understand the human natural feelings I have but can still provide a practical AND a spiritual solution.

3. Just Do Something

All the praying and listening and reading in the world won't mean a hill of beans if no action is happening. If you put one foot forward then God will meet you where ever you are. When you take two steps further, you may pick up on a piece of advice that could save or make you millions. See, all of these things work together. You can't do one without the other. Praying with no action yields no results. Learning with no action yields no results. Sitting on your hands hoping for an opportunity to fall in your lap Yields. No. Results.

I've been blessed enough to have positive people in my corner supporting and encouraging me along the way. They encourage for me to continue to do the responsible thing such as keeping a stable job until I can do better. However, they also speak life into my future, hopes and aspirations with managing my own successful interior design company. Fear can be paralyzing at times. It can stop you dead in your tracks when the path is already laid out just waiting for your first step. I challenge you (and myself) to meditate on this beautifully well written quote the next time you get that lump in your throat, or palms get a bit sweaty, or stomach feels a little queezy. Recognize that it is only fear and anxiety. Hush it up by saying:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant,
gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking
so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously
give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear,
our presence automatically liberates others.

-Marianne Williamson

Shine on guys!

P.s. Please share tips on how you maintain inspiration while working your bridge job.

P.s.s. Share tips on how you transitioned from your bridge job to a full time business owner.

I would love to hear from you!

Designer, Meet Perfect Client

2014-08-02T15:55:00.003-07:00

There comes a time when there is a match made in heaven between client and designer and I believe I have found that lucky one! This client contacted me after years of initially meeting. We connected instantly and were both scratching our heads as to why we lost contact in the first place. This is the most exciting project I've had to date. This is a girly/classic/colorful space and just a designer's dream.!

Here's a sneak peak of one of the mood boards I've done for a certain part of the space. Can you guess what type of commercial project this is going to be?

Stay Tuned!

3 Easy Tips for a Well Designed Home Office-Become More Productive Today!

2014-04-04T04:30:00.000-07:00

Since attending Interior Design school in Florida, I've always found myself working on the side of commercial interiors. I've always had an interest in how people worked so it was only befitting to have an opportunity to design work spaces. I believe your work space should inspire and motivate to well, actually do work.

I've had the chance to work for well design office spaces such as HOK in St. Louis and PDR in Houston. Both places got it right with creating a fun and illuminating place to work.

HOK @ Chicago Office

PDR in Houston. Notice how both former employers branded the space with a designated color. HOK was a deep orange and PDR was yellow.

When projects deadlines were approaching or the stress level was peaking or I wanted to strangle a co worker or two, I still managed to-at the very least, enjoyed my environment. Both places had phenomenal views because they were both in high rise buildings downtown so that was the icing on the cake!

However, if you're never granted the opportunity to work in such high profile architecture firms, you can still have your very own work oasis in your own home!

I've wrapped up a well designed home office space into 3 simple steps!

1. Designate a quiet room or corner for your space.

This could be anywhere in your home that will grant you privacy when you're using your office.
Although my office is in my living room I've still dedicated a 'wall' for it, and when my house is quiet, I'm able to use the space in private.

This space is far from done but I just wanted to show that you didn't need an official room to have a home office. I plan to add storage, better lighting and design the wall by adding paint or a decorative decal to brand the space. My office chair has dual purposes acting as the desk chair and an extra chair for the living room.

2. Illuminate and Isolate.

Brand your space! This can be done with an accent color or the desk acting as the focal point. But make sure your office makes you feel as if you're walking into your very own branded, well designed space and I guarantee you will be ready to work!
Also, not only is lighting practical but this is a wonderful opportunity to add a design element. There are a plethora of lighting options that could bring personality to your office.

This home office is branded by the color green! This simple and very cheap solution allows you to separate the space as an office and add an decorative element that should make you feel happy to be working in this office.

3. Storage! Storage! Storage!

First you must DECLUTTER! Everything should have a home from bills, to work assignments to the kids homework. There must be a place for everything if you want to remain productive and efficient. Organization is the key!
Even in a small space, there are a number of ways to accommodate your personal needs regardless of how small or big your office is. I'm going to personally add baskets to my bookshelf for storage. I'm also thinking of purchasing another book case once I run out of room.

This office space is clean and clear of clutter. Everything has a home! Love it!

Storage options doesn't have to be boring. You can have dual purposes for your storage.
In this space, storage is used as a decorative element for the wall and it's practical use of providing storage.

Wherever your home office is located, you can make it into your very own by showcasing your personality. That's the beauty of having your own home office. You can brand the space however you want!

If you follow these 3 easy steps, your office will provide a desire to want to be in it and I promise you will be more productive and ready to work!

For more inspiration on home office pictures, follow me on Pinterest and check out my Home Office Board.

New Client Project: Sneak Peak

2014-03-30T05:46:00.000-07:00

Like most, I love it when a good plan comes together...Especially when that plans happens on a budget and with a super fun client!

My client and her husband purchased their first home and needed design assistance from concept to completion. There were a ton of learning experiences for me with this project but I'll get more into the specifics and details of that in later posts.

This has been an amazing journey and I'm so excited to share it! I couldn't have asked for a better client to design for...

Inspiration photo with a little less white...

SNEAK PEAK!!

Stay tuned for more updates to come that will include the kitchen, master bedroom and a guest room!

Love & Lyrics

2013-09-21T15:50:00.003-07:00

Going in Circles? Down on Love. Why Don’t You Love Me?

All are lyrics song by beautiful and accomplished women. You hear pain in every note, run, and rip that lets you know that these women also have endured some type of stress and heartache from the opposite sex.

So how does this make the average woman like me and you feel any better? Especially regarding your luck with love if even perfectly photoshopped, famous women can’t prevent falling victim to a trifling man, you ask? It doesn’t and quite frankly it shouldn’t.

Personally, I wouldn’t want to listen to any songs (unless for getting turnt up purposes) that didn’t have meaningful lyrics. So I can appreciate that these women have been treated badly, or cheated on or ran over just for my good or for anything less--my listening pleasure. It lets me know that they too, are human and I can relate to anything human and beautifully flawed.

It’s the process of sifting thru what you want/don’t want; to finding out who you are and what you can/will tolerate; to actually finding that man that will provide most/all of whatever standards you’ve came up with for yourself. Even the most trained, honest and sensitive man could fall short of some your standards though so don’t be too hard on the brothers out here trying.

As one that has taken dating up again, I’m at the place where I found that man but I’m still learning if he can or will or even wants to live up to my standards. Don’t worry, I have sensible ones. Such as, treating me right, (read-no male whores), team oriented, progressive thinker, has some sort of faith based system, and are great with children that makes me laugh and motivates me to keep things light...I can be a bit intense at times so I would love a man that helps me relax.

I must admit, it’s been a bit challenging but for the first time in a very long time, I feel alive, and challenged and stretched in a relationship. If for nothing else, I would be winning rather or not it worked out or not because I. Have. Simply. Grown.

That in itself is worth every bit of this ride I’m on. I’m all about growth or else what’s the purpose if you aren’t learning from those around you? The lyrics above are words of clarity. Momentary sad, pitiful and pathetic truths that needs to be said so that the healing process can began after we’re all done feeling sorry for ourselves. After you’re done going in circles and being down on love and asking why he doesn’t love you, you then realize you are now ready for love. Again.

Allow Me to Reintroduce Myself

2013-09-18T18:43:00.001-07:00

*Taps mic twice and clears throat* Is there anyone out there??

Ok, so instead of giving a long drawn out spill on where I've been and why I haven't posted in over.....let's just a say a year...I'll just jump in and just say hello!!

And sorry I've been away for song long. There has been some MAJOR life changes in my life that will eventually get aired out here...Not all but most. I'm switching things up a bit. I'll be talking about everything instead of just Interior Design. So stay tuned and I hope you all come back and check me out!

Sharing is Caring-Inspirational Words I'm Trying to Live By...

2012-10-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

In lieu of what I would consider one of the roughest seasons in my life, I'm looking to the hills from which cometh my help!

It's not easy but I'm trying every day to have a positive outlook on things. Lately, a lot of inspirational words, scriptures, thoughts are getting me thru this tough time. I pin a lot of them but I wanted to share with my readers here on the blog.

Hope these words bless you as much as I'm being blessed and comforted!

Source: imgfave.com via Makiea on Pinterest

Source: buttercupink.blogspot.com via Makiea on Pinterest

Source: courageofalion.tumblr.com via Makiea on Pinterest

Office Space

2012-09-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

As a designer, when it comes to contemporary, I can take it or leave. In most instances I leave it.

But, when it comes to office spaces, I'm all about the contemporary look. Office spaces should be free of clutter and organized to help you be more productive and efficient. The clean lines of most contemporary furniture provides that look.

Interior Addict gets it all right when it comes to contemporary office furniture. I'm sure you will appreciate as I have the sharp lines of the furniture that provides that modern day look for your office space today.


If you're working with a small room then this 2-in-1 piece would be the perfect fit. Not only is it a desk but it's your storage as well. Perfect for an apartment size office!


How cool is this additional seating? It brings a certain flare into your office space while providing a functional seating option.

What's an office without some cool task lighting?

This storage unit is from Harrogate Interiors. Lucite is a HUGE crave right now.What's a contemporary office space without bringing in a trend?

A contemporary look is definitely left up to personal taste. Even if this doesn't suit you, when it comes to an office, the primary purpose of the space is suppose to be functional. You would want to stand clear of adding a ton of pretty distractions in a space that is meant for work and getting things done.

Whatever taste suits you, an office should still be able to provide an inspiring space where you're making all of your dreams come true!

Not Giving Up

2012-09-27T10:24:00.001-07:00

Now I know I've been M.I.A which is not my intention at all. Sometimes life just takes over and as much as I want to grow my business and my blog, shit happens. Without getting into everything that has been happening, I'm just in a complete state of confusion with everything. I feel so confident that designing is what I'm suppose to be doing and as sure as I am about that, I still have no idea how I'm going to make it all happen. I've knocked on every door of possibility and it feels as if God has shut them all down.

Let me just say this:

It's hard to build a business when basic needs such as shelter and food are compromised.

Not to mention we have a little girl to look after. Things are just so rough at this point. Truth is, I'm all out of words to say to God when I'm praying. I'm so flustered and confused, all I can do is just listen to gospel music to even feel anything. I feel like he's not answering any of our prayers. It really sucks to be in this place. I am hopeful things will turn around for my family very soon.

But until then, I will just ponder on this and keep it pushing.

In My Former Life...

2012-08-11T05:38:00.004-07:00

In my former life I was this hip, black turtle neck wearing, expensive eye glass having, $8 latte's sipping, super cool, swag on one thousand, architect.

In this life, I am a mother to a very soon to be (on Monday) three year old daughter and wife to a very simplistic, no fuss country, man. But hey, a girl can dream can't she?

But if I was this person in this other life, after reading some incredibly intellectual book that makes me look and feel smarter, I would then go out on the town (in the UK of course, because I'm also well traveled) and shop at Lakeland Furniture for contemporary pieces such as this...

Because, hello!?? I'm cool!

I absolutely love this store and it's definitely my go to place for any and all Eames!

Don't these chairs make you want to be cool!?

New Client Alert!!

2012-08-11T05:05:00.000-07:00

So I've booked a new client that needs a total house design. This lovely couple recently built their house from the ground up in one of the coolest neighborhoods located in Houston. I'm so excited to help them turn their house into a home!

They are also new parents so they wanted a clean look for their new house but not too 'mature'. They inspire to have a space that's livable and down to earth but polished and pulled together. We decided to start with the dining room first because they like to entertain. The dining area is an open space to the living room so I knew immediately I didn't want to cut off the space in between the dining and living room with large dining chairs, so I came up with a bench option to promote a continuous flow of conversation from the dining to the living room.

They were a bit hesitant a first about the bench option but once they marinated on the design concept a little longer, they loved the idea! They felt the bench option would be a total blast for kids that would come over as well as the adults so that whoever sat there, could just turn around and start chatting with folks in the living room!

The colors that were chosen are reflective of the gray walls that the clients had painted when the house was being built so when coming up with the concept board, I decided to keep that in mind.

I'll be going shopping with the couple some time next week to hunt down the dining table. I'll be sure to keep you updated on our progress!

Let me know what you think!

Empty Dining Room/Before

Design Concept

Which Way to Go?

2012-08-04T17:57:00.001-07:00

I have so many different things going on right now, my head is spinning.

After spending a very long time away with family, I put several projects on hold until I made it back to Texas. My heart is still very much into growing my business but I'm in the last rounds of interviews for a really great opportunity.

Anyone who has started a business from scratch with no initial capital can feel my pain when I say "Mama need a house and baby need some shoes."

In other words, I need funds like yesterday. I have a family that I have to take care of and as much as I'm down for the grind, I can't do it at the expense of my daughter going without basic necessities. The projects that are on hold are for my portfolio which means I'm working for the free! My husband and I agreed that if I didn't have any paying clients by a certain point, I would then start looking for a job. Well my friends, that time has come.

There is no wrong way with starting a business but I believe I am one of those people that should start a business while having a full time job. This way I could avoid the pressure of having to book a client just to buy dinner for the night. I'm definitely not about that life right now. That type of pressure is just too much. Should I get hired with this job, I will be traveling so I would use the down time I have in the hotel room to work on my side hustle to help keep my mind off being away from my family.

Everyone keeps asking me how I feel about returning back to corporate America. First off, I haven't been gone that long and secondly we all have to do what we have to do until we can do better. I'm feeling pretty good about returning back to work. I'm open to whatever God has planned for my life at this point so I'm not putting up a fuss about too much of anything these days with the exception of being closer to family. I really, really, really miss my family!

Dining Rooms Are Now Offices

2012-07-24T09:42:00.002-07:00

Trend alert:

Dining rooms are now becoming offices.

Makes perfect sense to me. If you're anything like my family; we congregate in our dining room only for holidays. Other than that, it collects mounds of dust. In search for a new home I am definitely looking for a house with a dining room. Although turkey, dressing and cranberry sauce will partake in this room, I want a functional space that will provide as my office.

The search starts with the perfect transitional desk/dining table. I stumbled across a furniture store called Oldrids & Downtowns.

They had an array of dining options that could also be used as desks and then back to a dining room table once the family comes into town.

via Emily A. Clark Before: Dining Room

via Emily A. Clark After

Out of the Office

2012-07-19T18:18:00.004-07:00

I've been enjoying the most wonderful time with my family in North Carolina. I will start back posting regularly next week when I return back to Texas. Gotta love summer vacations!

Also,

I've officially launched Makiea Montgomery Interior Design to the world! I can't turn back now.

Designing My Own Life

2012-06-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

designing my life & business with intention

This past week was absolutely amazing in terms of business direction. I had a chance to speak with Jess Constable from Makeunder My Life and the conversation was a huge eye opener.

I shared with her some fears I have with going forward with my business. I'll share those fears with you all eventually but I'm still working it out. Ya girl got some issues.

What I took away from the conversation was how in fact I'm the only person standing in my own way to my success. It literally hit me like a ton bricks that I was quietly sabotaging my own future success.

When I learn about others success and read about how they just so happened to fall into their very lucrative and successful business, I always walk away scratching my head. I mean I'm not trying to hate, but I'm just saying, booking one client for a business I've started on purpose is tough enough. I hear all the time how people design for one client (for fun) which then accidentally turns into an actual successful design company. As lovely as it sounds that is just not my reality. Even where I am today took a lot of planning, money and time and as much as I would have liked it to, my business has not fallen out of the pretty blue sky.

Nevertheless, I remind myself that my journey is much different. If that's how God wanted my business to grow then I would have opportunities lining up at my door without having to lift one designing finger. So, I'm assuming my journey is less about the destination but more about how I make it there. I'm pretty ok with that too, especially if God is laying out this path because I am no match for him to try and lay it out on my own.

One thing I do know for sure is success is inevitable. I know that it will happen. I can only do what I can do and leave the rest up to the man that is in charge.

"Write down the vision and make it plain" Habakkuk 2:2. Now most people are inspired by just that verse but it also continues to say the vision will manifest at it's appointed time! *ques choir*

Here is the scripture, verses 2-3 in it's entirety:
Write the vision; make it plain on tablets so he may run who reads it.For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay

I'm taking Jess's approach to layout what my intentions are:

I want to start up and run my business using my own investments. No small business loans or personal loans from anyone which means I have got to book that first client.
I want to seek creative clients that truly understand the importance of an inspiring workspace and are actively seeking to create that for their small business.
I want to hire a small staff that is trained and groomed by me so that I can eventually shift responsibilities on when personal things arise such as having another baby. Also, I never want to be in a position where I can't take on additional projects because of lack of support.
I want an office space that reflects my brand and creativity. I also want to rent out office space to other Interior Designers or creative professionals.
I want to brand my business. I want my brand to be synonymous with compassion, attainability, modernness and stylish flyness:) I want to be recognized as a brand nationally within 5-7 years.
I want to grow my readership with my blog and continually intertwine both the blog and my business and turn readers into clients.
I want to host workshops teaching African American women how to run professional creative businesses without marking up the prices for professionalism. ( I will write a blog about this very soon)
I want to maintain an ideal balance with my family and my business. I don't want either to suffer.
I want to travel to my creative clients workspace so that I can always have a visual on what I'm working with.
I want to always keep God ahead of my business. It will never be a success like I've envisioned without prioritizing.

Free Interior Design Anyone??

2012-06-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

I have a super duper steal of a deal coming up very soon that I can't wait to share!

Ok, I can't wait so I'm going to share just a little bit, ok?

I'm amazed by the support I'm receiving already and I haven't even officially launched the blog yet! Pure craziness-in a good way!

I'm going to be offering my ten years of interior design experience to not one... not two... but to three lucky people that need a fresh design for their home or their small business. Get this...

FOR FREE!

*record scratch*

"Girl did she just say for free?"

I sure did!

Deets coming soon...

Turn this...

Into this...

Traditional Kitchen design by Los Angeles Interior Designer Jeneration Interiors

For Free!

Who I Am

2012-06-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

Last night I was feeling a bit anxious about the state of my future for my family, and my business. I became unsettled with the uncertainty of everything. I suppose my feelings are normal but there is something about worrying that kills ya insides slowly. Since I couldn't sleep, I can across this blog and this particular post and was immediately repentful. (I know that's not a word, just roll with me, k?)

Sherri talks about remembering who you are and rising above what you're not. These few words were so helpful in the midst of my inner turmoil last night.

In efforts of finding my voice with my new business and blog I never, ever want to omit parts of myself from this journey. I love God and I know without a shadow of doubt that he loves me and any clients, money, accolades are all from him. "But seek first God's Kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33.

This is so vital and comes before my marriage, business, social circle, clients, daughter, house, money, wealth, success and everything else that's in my heart's desire.

I think I was stressing about my future because I go days without talking to God and that is No Bueno. A friend told me to take everything to God including my fears and frustration. I think I hold on to my frustration and use it as a crutch or an excuse to remain mediocre. God didn't make me that way so if I'm feeling like that it's because of my own fault. As promised, I would be candid on this journey to grow my business and this goes with the territory. I'm so far from perfect. I like to think that I am because I only use a few choice cuss words from time to time and that's about it. Other than that I'm perfection:) So far from the truth, but I do know for everyday that I'm chilling at Club Piti-Party, I climb out my deep hole of self-loathing and live another day to tell about it. That's all I can do and everything else I give away to a much higher power than myself. That's who I am.

Texas Where Are Your Basements??!

2012-06-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Being that I'm originally from the Midwest I come from a place where square footage is instantly added to your house by just having a basement. The Victorian style house I grew up in was no different. If my mom had the budget to renovate, I'm sure we could have really made a huge impact to our already, four bedroom, four story house including an attic as well. Both spaces were rooms I didn't frequent often because of the pure scariness of them. I now realize that you sure don't miss what you have until it's gone.

I understand Texas homes will never have basements, just off the sheer fact that it's hotter than satan's toe nails down here. But the extra space is so dreamy isn't it? A kids play room, a theater, a small basement apartment to rent out. The opportunities are endless. If you have a basement or live in a state where you can get one, then I say count your blessings!

Even if you don't have the budget now, start saving for the renovation for future. You could add an art room, dance studio, pool table, theater, a mini hair shop (my Mama sure did have one), lounge area, kid area, bowling alley, etc... We even used to roller skate in our basement. Ahh, the memories!

And now for the pretty pictures...

Traditional Basement design by Cincinnati Design-build Sensible Home Design

Contemporary Basement design by Burlington Design-build Peregrine Design Build

Contemporary Basement design by New York Interior Designer Feathered Nest Interiors, LLC

Contemporary Basement design by Dc Metro Design-build Synergy Design & Construction, Inc.

Eclectic Basement design by Seattle Design-build Concept Builders, Inc.

Modern Basement design by Dc Metro Design-build Wentworth, Inc.

Contemporary Basement design by Burlington Design-build Peregrine Design Build

Traditional Basement design by Philadelphia Interior Designer Custer Design Group

Contemporary Basement design by Chicago Design-build Airoom.com Architects-Builders-Remodelers

Past Client's Design Boards

2012-06-19T12:50:00.004-07:00

Apartment Office Space

Medical Office Lobby Area

Kitchen Update


Living Room Update...Before

Living Room Update Inspiration

It's The Small Victories That Count

2012-06-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

I got my EIN number today for my business!! I feel so official.

Welcome to Makiea Montgomery Interior Design

2012-06-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hi! Welcome to my website. I really appreciate you stopping by. I've recently launched my business and I think this post is a perfect way to invite you on my journey. I am absolutely in love with entrepreneurs, so much, I've decided to cater my design experience towards them. However, I am not limiting myself to just corporate design and would love to take on residential clients. Check back frequently to see my work, client spotlights and much, much more!

Have patience with me as I work out a few kinks along the way. I will be having an official launch party soon, so stay tuned!!