Today we’d like to introduce you to Isabella Stephens.
Hi Isabella, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My fascination with interior design began when I was a kid; rearranging the furniture in my Barbie houses more than playing with the actual dolls. I went on to study interior architecture in college, and began Isabella Stephens Interiors right after I graduated. I always knew I wanted to work in residential interiors, and run my own company. When I graduated in spring of 2020 (hello covid) I knew it was the perfect time to jump into it. I started with smaller furnishings projects, then took on my first few bathroom renovations. From there it grew very naturally to kitchen renovations, full home remodels, new construction and full home furnishings projects.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I would say running a business is like driving on a smooth road and then all the sudden you get a flat tire and you’re in the middle of nowhere with a dead phone and no spare tire. For the most part things run pretty smooth day to day, and it’s been slow and steady growth over the last six years. Little things can and will go wrong all the time, especially working in the design / build industry. Things will get backordered unexpectedly, something gets installed and the client realizes they don’t love it like they thought they did. Or bigger nightmare situations like clients refusing to pay their bills (so fun). Overall I’ve just learned that every time something goes wrong, it’s just another note in my ongoing list of what not to do next time. All you can really do is take it project by project and learn as you go.
We’ve been impressed with Isabella Stephens Interiors, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At ISI, we’re invited into the most intimate details of your life and your family, to try and help you create something magical. We’re not picking out kitchen barstools just so you have somewhere to sit. We’re picking kitchen barstools that your kids will eat breakfast at every morning, that your sister will sit on while you sip wine and talk about life, where you’ll get to tell your Mom all about your exciting new job. We’re big on diving into how you live your life and who you live it with, and creating a beautiful environment for you to love your people in. We create spaces for you to create memories.
The thing I’m most proud of is how our clients tell us how we go above and beyond. I really strive to create meaningful client relationships, and to give people not only a beautiful home when all is said and done, but an enjoyable process along the way.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I was lucky to be connected early on in my career with other interior designers who have long standing careers. If you don’t already know someone in your industry, I’d start by searching on Instagram to find people in your area. Even a quick DM hello could be a great way to start a conversation and get to know someone who’s trying to build something similar to you. It’s always nice to have someone who understands what you’re working on, and who can give you advice along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://isabellastephensinteriors.com
- Instagram: @isabellastephensinteriors
