Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Cummins.
Hi Katie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have been obsessing over interiors since the age of six. This is when I convinced my parents I needed my own room and I needed to help design it. A small 10’x10′ pink and purple room was built off of the back of the house and an Interior Girl was born. Coming from a modest background and being the youngest of four girls, I learned very quickly how to turn trash into treasure. I discovered garage sales, flea markets and thrift stores were full of priceless pieces that would make any room tell a story and feel unique. I took this early knowledge and refined it with a Bachelors degree in Interior Design. I am a Registered Interior Designer with the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners and have 14 years of industry experience in commercial, corporate, retail and residential design.
Although I love all facets of interior design, residential has my heart. There is something so special about helping a family create their dream home. This is where they are going to make lifelong memories. The fact that I get to be a small part of that is very rewarding.
I have had a residential side hustle for about two years now. When I was furloughed from my corporate job at the beginning of the pandemic, I decided to take on more clients. Fast forward a few months and I was asked back to my corporate design job. Now I am doing both. I have never been busier or felt more fulfilled. At times it can be quite the juggling act and honestly a bit stressful. However, the beauty of a side hustle is that I work for myself. I can choose what projects I want to take on, how many I want to have at time and the people I want to work with. I know there will soon be a fork in the road and I will have to choose which path I need to go down. For now, I choose to put my head down and work hard. The rest will fall into place.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I am a creative by nature so learning the business side of design can be challenging at times. Luckily I know when to ask questions and I have a great group of peers I can lean on when I may need professional guidance.
Another challenge has been managing project timelines during a pandemic. The supply chain was hit hard, which has created so many delays in furniture and fixture deliveries. To put it into perspective, something that usually takes eight weeks to arrive is now taking four months or more. Luckily I have very understanding clients but, it has been hard to predict completion dates and do proper installs for them.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an Interior Designer. There is so much that goes into what I do but, to keep it short, I make spaces beautiful but also functional. I specialize in Residential and Commercial Interior Design. I am known for beautiful spaces that can also be lived in. I am most proud of creating this business and following my dreams. Customer Service and Relationships. I am a one-woman show and only take on 1 or 2 projects at a time. I do this so I can focus all of my attention on my client and their needs.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Patience! There have been so many unforeseen delays. I have learned to pivot as needed and practice patience.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@Interior-Girl.com
- Website: www.Interior-Girl.com
- Instagram: @interiorgirloffical
- Facebook: @interiorgirl
- Other: Pinterest. @Interior_Girl
Image Credits
Megan Weaver
