Today we’d like to introduce you to Jericka Childress.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always had an eye for design and been drawn to decorating. After having my first son, Mac, I really felt compelled to take a leap of faith and start my own design business. Something about having children makes you less fearful because you want to show them that they can do and be anything, and what better way to show them that than to do it yourself! This is how J Childress Interiors became.
Fast forward to when my husband and I bought the original “Sally’s Flower Shoppe” building in Fort Worth, Texas, just a couple blocks from our home. I couldn’t wait to design it and knew that I wanted to keep some historic charm of the building. So, keeping some of the original characteristics in mind, I kept the building a similar pink stucco color and re-purposed materials such as the shiplap ceilings, original walk-in fridge, doors and windows. I soon realized that Fort Worth was lacking in this southwestern yet modern aesthetic and I decided to set up shop in the charming building and offer the public hand sourced unique and quality furniture, rugs, lighting, art, decor and gifts. Adding a bright blue door to the front of the building was a no-brainer and “The Blue Door” soon became an obvious name for the shop! Along with unique furnishings and décor I also offer design services and don’t limit myself to one style. I love experimenting with different styles and coming up with fresh new ideas to make each design as unique as the people I am designing for.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The hardest part is just jumping in and not letting fear hold you back from doing what you love.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Networking is big. I wasn’t aware of this starting out and if I could go back I would do more of it.
Pricing:
- For design services I charge $100 and hour and work off of a retainer depending on the size of the job.
- Our products range from $30.00 gift items to $5,000.00 + dining tables and other larger furniture items
Contact Info:
- Address: 4215 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76107
- Website: thebluedoorfw.com
- Phone: 682-760-7276
- Instagram: thebluedoorfw / jchildressinteriors
Image Credit:
Main photo is taken by Amanda Gantzer Photography
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