Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Taylor.
Hi Jamie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, I am a product of low-income housing and domestic violence. When I was 3 years old, my father, a drug addict, was sentenced to 21 years in prison for brutally attacking my mother. My mother, a hard-working and determined woman, was a struggling hairstylist working her way up in Dallas to make a better life for my older brother and I. As a result, my mother entrusted my loving grandmother and grandfather to raise us.
With these humble beginnings, my family instilled in me these core values: keep God first, get an education, and depend on no one.
I was a creative child from the start. Artist, violinist, praise dancer, anything related to the arts—I’m sure I’ve done it twice! I was also academically inclined, so school and good grades came easily to me. Ultimately, I honestly wasn’t sure what I wanted to be when I grew up. I hadn’t discovered that one thing because I enjoyed everything!
It wasn’t until my second year at Eastfield Community College that I found the answer. I knew I was good at math and that I could draw. A quick Google search and I found Architecture and Interior Design. To confirm, I was working in the print center at Office Max when I wrote a few printer setting notes for a customer. While reading my notes, she said, “You’re meant to be in the arts, in engineering or something.” I replied, “I’m actually interested in Architecture.” She looked in shock and said, “Keep these notes you’ve written as a reminder that whenever you feel like quitting or giving up, look at this paper and remember you are meant to do this.” And she walked off.
After that day, I applied to the School of Architecture, Interior Design program at the University of Texas at Arlington, and I never looked back.
12 years later, I have worked my way from Intern to Senior Interior Designer. Working with high end developers and interior design firms across Texas. After 9 years of success in the field, I am now Founder, Owner, and Designer at JVonte’ Designs LLC. An interior design studio successfully operating for 3 consecutive years.
At JVonte’ Designs, our focus is on creating spaces that transform the client’s everyday life! With emphasis on luxury residential design, new construction, renovations, and furnishings, we take pride in our diverse portfolio and clientele. Rest assured, whatever your design style is, JVonte’ Designs will bring it to life!
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?
Like most of us, life is not an easy road. Being a young African-American female in the interior design field, I’ve found myself being the only person in a room that looked like me. I’ve often been underestimated, counted out, and labeled as “the help.” However, I never let adversity stop me. I kept my head down, worked hard, and one day I looked up and I found myself promoted and titled the Top Lead Interior Designer in multiple spaces! I am a firm believer in letting my work speak for itself!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Jvonte’ Designs is an interior design studio based in Dallas, TX.
During the first 6 years of my career, I studied under some of the most prestigious interior designers in Texas.
Working closely alongside them, I was challenged to wear many hats and forced to think quickly on my feet! Using my networking skills, I was able to learn the ins and outs of the interior design business. From accounting/bookkeeping, order logistics, managing high volume workloads, leading and directing 20+ team members on high-end luxury design installs, construction processes, and impeccable presentation skills! No subject was left untouched! In the most recent 3 years, I have rigorously built my company from the ground up using the skills within my toolbox. I consider myself a chameleon, able to adapt in any room with all walks of life. I have dedicated my craft to studying all cultures, art, textiles, and demographics. JVonte’ Designs was founded on diversity and inclusion. No matter who you are, we know your style and we will achieve your design dreams!
With a focus on luxury residential design, new construction, and furnishings, JVonte’ Designs is a one-stop shop!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Resources are invaluable and I like to apply them anywhere I can! I will be the first to say I do not know everything and that I am always learning. To sharpen my skills, stay focused, and gain knowledge, I rely on my support system.
God, family, and friends. These three groups help me process my thoughts and execute my goals! They all bring wisdom and resources that I can learn from. Apps, books, podcasts, blogs, they are always introducing me to new information! Building strong relationships has taken my career to new levels I could have never imagined. I am blessed in this way because I serve. I show up for the people I love, and they show up for me.
Resources outside of my support system would be traveling to explore new design styles, Pinterest for the latest trends, Architectural Digest magazines and books, self-help podcasts, and the Holy Bible.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jvontedesigns/
Image Credits
Instagram @fleurdecayphotog photographed headshots and the image with the stained wood kitchen island.
