Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Lofton.
Crystal, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always had a love for Decorating. From as far back as my college days with my first off-campus apartment. I wanted my apartment to feel cozy and well decorated to capture my colorful personality. I love the way a well-decorated home makes you feel when you walk in, it’s a safe haven to be yourself. I didn’t always envision my hobbie/passion could turn into an Interior Design business. After praying and the support of my former business partner, I decided to go for it! What did I have to lose besides failing to try. I honestly doubted the need in the Interior Design industry. I thought “Do people really pay for this type of service and insight”, “Will people trust my vision and talent as a designer” so many doubts and fears started to creep in. “I SAID NO JUST DO IT” I met my first client in one of my favorite stores “HomeGoods” randomly shopping, she approached me for decor ideas and booked me on the spot! So exciting.!!! With a marketing platform as valuable as social media it wasn’t long before the likes, shares, repost gave me visibility to prospective clients. I have grown so much in such little time! Adding 3D Rendering services, virtual Designing, and Design Travel for Out of State clients. 2020 is my year of growth and pushing myself to the max, expanding Defined Essence into Product lines, print advertisement, brand collaboration, and all things Interior. I can’t wait to watch my baby grow!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It most definitely hasn’t been a smooth journey but not a difficult one either. The biggest challenge I face daily is staying motivated to give 100% EVERYDAY. Reminding myself it’s a marathon not a Sprint! The psychological downfall of social media will send you in a trans of comparing yourself to others and where you think you should be. I seriously have gained self-awareness of how to utilize social media for marketing purpose and brand awareness. When you stop scrolling and pick up something that benefits the growth of my business. If not, I will lose sight of my journey and business needs.
Mom Guilt is real! Balancing being a Present Mom, Expanding a business, and having a Social Life is a struggle. I don’t think anyone has the recipe for doing it all, but I have an amazing supportive village that steps in when needed. This would be nearly impossible if not for my family and close friends. Including my daughter in my business has been evolving for both of us. She’s able to see mommy work hard and earn money when she comes to work with me. Not mention having a partner that’s “jack of all trades” he is absolutely supportive and amazing.
Please tell us about Defined Essence Interior.
Defined Essence Interior is a Dallas Based Interior Design company specializing in Interior Design, Interior Remodel, 3D Rendering, Staging, and Airbnb. Your home is a place that provides centering and memories, a place you leave each morning and return each evening, a place that provides security, control, belonging identity, and privacy. Designing a warm and inviting space or updating a home with new style that matches what you envision is always my primary goal. I’m known for capturing your personal style and translating it into a masterpiece of style. I take my time with understanding your needs, wants, functionality, Pinterest boards lol, things you’ve seen on TV and fitting it into your budget. I pride myself with doing DYI projects, resell shopping, sourcing one of kind pieces. and budgeting for the best prices for my clients. Most people think there’s a certain dollar amount you need to hire a Designer or it’s expensive to remodel/decorate a space. I work with all budgets it pushes me to become more creative. I tell my clients projects will take up to 3-5 months to complete, which allows me to source for the best deals.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had to start over, I would have started sooner! I’m truly living in my purpose and diving deeper into my passion. It’s all overwhelming and exciting.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.definedessenceinterior.com
- Phone: 4698268609
- Email: DEinterior1@gmail.com
- Instagram: maddiepooh1013 & de_home_interior_design
- Facebook: Defined Essence Home
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