Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Murphy.
Hi Erica, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Interior design has always been my first love. I studied Architecture and Interior Design in College. My college professor asked me, “What is your dream?” I replied: “To be an interior designer on HGTV!” but then, life had a change of course for me. I have always had an eye for design, and decor, and will walk into a space and re-design the area in my mind, sounds crazy, I know, but if you are creative, you get it! When I was studying design in college, I had a meeting with the Dean of Interior Design, after being rejected from the program. I will never forget she told me I should take drawing classes in the meantime (little did she know, my strongest skill was drawing blueprints on a drafting board) — that comment discouraged me so much that I changed my major and turned my back on my dreams out of fear of rejection, fear of not being good enough. Even though I’ve had family, friends, and some strangers tell me I have a talent in design, I guess my original dream faded and I never took the leap of faith, until now. My passion has never left, and my love for design has never left, it’s all in divine timing. My passion to help people and my passion for design are the reasons why I created ELM Interiors, it is my belief that everything comes around full circle — we are living life by design.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Getting started is just the beginning, taking that leap of faith can be scary. As for me, my biggest obstacle/challenge was to get out of my own head. I sat on my business idea for months — debating, overthinking. But I am learning when you feel the fear, do it anyway. People don’t usually tell you about the obstacles, they tell you about their wins. I always make sure to encourage people that whatever you do, don’t give up on your dreams! Sounds cliche, but seriously, you can take a break, pause, and regroup but always come back to it. When I started, I had the “perfect idea” of how my business was going to go, I’ll have this many clients by this time, etc. but, that wasn’t reality! What I have been challenged with is consistency. Can you remain consistent even when you do not see the results as you expected in the beginning? Learning to pivot when needed, learning to be patient, and also learning to stay the course and remember why I started my own business. I also have to remind myself to celebrate the little wins along the way, it can make all the difference!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
ELM Interiors offers virtual interior styling services. Whether you need assistance with decor ideas, a concept consultation, or a complete redesign of your space, all interior services are done entirely online. It is a convenient way for clients to work with me even in another state. Here’s how it works: I am available online via my website. You’re able to fill me in by selecting your desired service and fill out a simple questionnaire about your decor needs. Then, depending on your service package, you will receive a custom-designed mood board, concept board or e-design, including a detailed list of items used in the design which makes it easy for you to find and purchase. Each client will be working directly with me. You can think of me as your personal shopper for all things interior! ELM Interiors is an easy way to get a personalized experience working with an interior stylist to transform your space. I am most proud of being able to work with an array of clients which challenges and expands my creativity when it comes to designing. I believe what sets ELM Interiors apart from others is not only is it an innovative and affordable way to provide top-notch design ideas for the “do-it-yourselfer”, but also the deliverables that my clients receive are detailed and personalized to their specific decor needs. I have a huge passion for each and every project and I am so excited to expand on my business services coming later this year!
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory was spending the summer break at my grandparents’ house in a small town in North Carolina. I remember playing outside in their huge backyard and setting up a lemonade stand. But no one ever stopped to buy the lemonade so my grandmother would sneak and put five dollars in the jar for me. (LOL) ELM Interiors was actually inspired by my grandmother. My initials are ELM, and so are my grandmother’s and I was named after her daughter. I recently lost my grandmother earlier this year and I created ELM before she passed. My brand is so much more than a business to me, there is meaning and representation behind the name, it’s about creating a family legacy. That’s the root of my passion with the success of ELM Interiors.
Contact Info:
- Email: contact@elm-interiors.com
- Website: https://www.elm-interiors.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elminteriors_/
Image Credits
Terica B Photo
