Meet Trailblazer Tresa Shimonek

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tresa Shimonek.

Tresa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Hi there, I will try and keep it short and sweet. I have always had a mind for design. So I went back to college at 27 and got a degree in design. I went to work for a huge big box store doing design. I then moved up the ranks very fast and it had been a long time since I had did any type of design work. So I left that company and started my own design firm. What started out as designing new kitchens etc. turned into remodeling kitchens and then turned into building the whole house. I do have a storefront that is also retail.

It has everything you need for your home, from design services, to remodels to new construction. It has a flooring showroom as well as a home goods showroom. You can literally come to my shop and find the perfect piece for your home as well as the design services to help you pick the perfect piece. We also have a paint line for painting pieces or cabinets for your home.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road hasn’t always been easy. But, I have the most amazing clients and customers. I have been so fortunate over the last 15 years. Don’t get me wrong it can be a battle. I don’t even know what 40 hour work weeks are anymore. I am always the only woman at the job site, but I am also the most important person at the site. People still look at me like “you’re the builder.”

But at the end of the day, I bring so much to the table, between my schooling, my eye and my leadership, that there is no denying I am exactly where I am supposed to be. I would say to any person who is starting their career. Do not let your gender decide your path, do not let obstacles detour you, follow your heart, follow your skill, we all have one, but most of all be the best you, you can be even if it is out of the norm.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Vintage Farmhouse – what should we know?
My work is so all over the place, just when you think you have me figured out, I bring something new to the table. I never stop learning. My degree, my life skills, my vision and my knowledge has given my ability to, do so much. From draw, a house on a napkin, to turn that house into a blueprint, to build that house, to design the inside of that house, and to fill that house with furniture. My shop gives me the ability to connect with people. Although my shop is very farmhouse, and it has been for over 12 years, my ability to adapt to any style is my strong suit.

What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Never ever let anyone stop you from your dreams. I know its a cliche. And it will never be easy, and it will not happen overnight. And you may have to start with jobs you don’t want. But it’s not the race its the finish line.

Contact Info:

• Address: The Vintage Farmhouse Interiors by Design Shimonek Custom Homes
  103 S. Beaton St.
  Corsicana, Tx 75110
• Phone: 903-872-3119
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Vintage-Farmhouse-Paint-and-Decor-122889297831747/

Image Credit:
Tresa Shimonek
Jake Shimonek

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