Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Veronica Sanders. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Veronica, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

One of the most significant leaps I’ve ever made was diving into the world of interior design entrepreneurship. Back in 2019, I found myself in a design firm that didn’t align with my aspirations. The week before Thanksgiving, I was unexpectedly let go, which was a heavy blow for both my family and me. To make ends meet, I filed unemployment and my husband and I turned to gig work, which surprisingly revealed my love for crafting my own schedule. It dawned on me that entrepreneurship was the path I needed to pursue.

So, I took the plunge! In January 2020, armed with determination, I formulated a business plan, delved into business tools, and officially registered my LLC. It was a daunting move as I had no prior experience in running a business, and little did I know the impending global shutdown due to the pandemic just two months later!

The first year was rough and filled with uncertainties, but here I am, still standing strong!

Veronica, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I used to joke that my path into interior design was paved by binge-watching HGTV while tinkering with furniture during my frustrating days as a bank teller. However, I’ve come to realize that interior design is more than just a pastime—it’s ingrained in my DNA. Raised in a family of artists and industry professionals, creativity flows through our veins. From my grandfather, a skilled contractor, to my parents’ artistic talents, and even down to my children’s varied artistic pursuits, it’s clear that creativity is our family’s hallmark.

As for me, my passion for design manifested early on. I remember sketching floor plans during church services, creating dream homes from magazine clippings, and fashioning makeshift Barbie dream houses from taped-together shoeboxes. It’s not just what I do; it’s who I am.

In my professional life, I help homeowners and busy professionals curate personalized sanctuaries that blend sophistication with joy. Whether it’s solving intricate design dilemmas or infusing spaces with my signature modern artisan aesthetic, I thrive on crafting bespoke retreats that reflect my clients’ individuality.

Maintaining my business has been a source of immense pride amidst the challenges of entrepreneurship. It’s a journey marked by resilience and occasional solitude. Winning the logo design contest judged by Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry stands out as a defining moment. Meeting her in person was not only a career highlight but also a powerful affirmation of my expertise. It reinforced my belief that I excel in my craft.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One story that displays my resilience is the journey I took to earn my interior design degree. As a teenage mother, the idea of attending college seemed like a distant dream. However, despite the challenges, I graduated in the top 25% of my class as an honors student, which was an accomplishment in itself.

While I harbored aspirations of pursuing higher education, the responsibilities of motherhood made it seem unattainable. It wasn’t until five years after high school graduation, in 2008, that I finally took the leap and enrolled in an art school. Shortly after starting my studies, I discovered I was pregnant with my third son and made the decision to take a break to focus on being a stay-at-home mom.

Determined to pursue my degree, I resumed my studies in 2012. However, I encountered setbacks when my college credits didn’t transfer, requiring a fresh start. Despite these challenges, fueled by a desire for better career opportunities and a belief in the value of education, I persevered. I made the decision to transfer once more, only to face the same hurdle of non-transferable credits. Undeterred, I started from scratch, yet again.

After four years of unwavering dedication and perseverance, I finally achieved my goal, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in interior design from the School of Architecture at the University of Texas at Arlington. It was a momentous occasion, marking the culmination of a decade-long journey filled with challenges and triumphs.

This experience not only demonstrates my resilience but also underscores my commitment to going the extra mile for my clients. Just as I persisted in pursuing my education despite numerous obstacles, I bring the same level of determination and dedication to advocating for and delivering exceptional results for those I serve in the realm of interior design.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My reputation in the interior design market has been cultivated through a combination of factors. Top among them are my unwavering determination, engaging personality, and sincere dedication to each client and project. I volunteer extensively in design organizations, mentor budding designers, and even teach at the college level part-time. These qualities, complemented by my passion for design and honed skills, have been instrumental in my success.

I’ve garnered recognition through various avenues, including winning design scholarships to support my education, participating in competitions, having my work featured in magazines, and receiving accolades. However, beyond accolades, my advocacy for clients and the tangible outcomes of my work are the true markers of my success.

In my approach, authenticity is paramount. I prioritize listening to my clients, ensuring their needs and preferences are understood and reflected in the final design. Moreover, I’m willing to set aside personal pride to achieve optimal results, placing the client’s satisfaction above all else. This commitment to genuine connection and excellence is what sets me apart in the interior design industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.designwithveronica.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designwithronnie
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designwithronnie
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/55292288
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRRdZ0DqOzBOtVf_4SlGSQ

Image Credits
Aaron Dougherty Photography, Matti Gresham Photography, A Bacot Company Productions