I’ve been working with amazing vendors this year!! They have helped me immensely by loaning me their beautiful waterfront estates for photo shoots, they’ve created custom t-shirts, baked DELICIOUS cookies, spread the word through social media outlets, allowed me to collaborate in areas of photography that I don’t typically work in…it’s all been such a blessing! As a way to say thank you, I’ll be highlighting one of their businesses each week.

This week, we’ll meet the uber talented Charlotte Staton, owner of Charlotte Staton Design. She officially opened Charlotte Staton Design in August of 2015. With a degree in interior design and over a decade working in the fashion and interiors retail industry, she was confident and ready to start her own business venture. Read our interview below as we discuss the ins and outs of owning her own business.

What do you love most about your business?

I love the creativity piece. Design is taste. You either have it or you don’t. I love how creative I can be everyday and my client’s go crazy for it!

What do you love most about being your own boss?
Besides the two cats in my office? Haha! I’ve always been passionate about running successful businesses. It’s in my blood. Not only am I in control of the creative piece, but where my business is going and how to get there. The fun is in the journey right?! Amen, Sister!!! 🙂

What are some of the challenges of owning a small business and being a creative entrepreneur?
I’ve always worked in teams. Sometimes I run into a challenge and crave bouncing an idea off of another designer.

How do you hope to overcome those obstacles?
I have a great network of friends and designers who are always available to lend their opinion.

What are your go-to resources for building your business and growing it- books, seminars, workshops, online resources, blogs?
I am a member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers). They provide fabulous small business strategy courses, including client relations and project management. I also love how social media provides a quick jolt of inspiration in a snapshot. Success in this business is a true balance between creativity and savvy business expertise.

What other jobs have you done prior to owning this wonderful business?
I worked in the fashion and design retail fields for a decade before opening Charlotte Staton Design. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. I managed multiple successful businesses, building teams, developing people, driving results, and developing clients. I attribute these experiences to my current success.

Do you have any future plans you’d like to share or is there something new you’ll be adding to your current business?
I’ve always got future plans cooking! I’m looking forward to my business growing on the commercial side, as well as my commissioned art pieces. Stay tuned!! I personally can’t wait!!

Where do you find your design inspiration for your clients and for your artwork?
I take my design inspiration from the client themselves- digging into who they really are and ensuring their space is a reflection. My clients hire me, because they crave my style. I always ensure you can see Charlotte Staton Design in each well designed space.
Jackson Pollock is my favorite artist of all time. My commissioned art pieces are customized for each space emulating the client’s taste while maintaining abstract values.

Which design trends do you predict we’ll be seeing in the near future? Are there any trends that are going away?
Design, like fashion, is always a cycle. (Never throw out those accessories- they will make a return in the design world! …hello brass!) We are seeing formality come back into spaces, statements being made in the details, and embracing mix-match style to truly reflect the client and designer.

Do you have any tips for those on a budget when it comes to design? What design elements get you the biggest bang for the buck when decorating a space?
When it comes to budget- just like fashion, spend money on the classics and save money on the trends. If you spend the majority of your time in the living room- invest in an amazing sofa and great rug. Lighting makes a huge statement too (and you can take it with you when you move). Save on accessories and textiles.
Updating your kitchen and bathroom will ensure return on your investment- not to mention make a huge impression on your guests!

WOW!!! Charlotte is AMAZING!!! Thanks so much for letting us have a little glimpse into your world of design and entrepreneurship! And also for the great tips for designing on a budget.