Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Blum.
Hi Carolyn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I read the book Purpose driver life by RIck Warren. I knew then that I needed to pursue my passion for interior design. I then attended a Executive confrence in San Diego for Women that analysed your abilities and how those abilities should be applied. My peers, subordinates and supioriors comleted questionares on me and my abilities that were submitted to this anylytical group. At that time I was a Director for a large company and was not challenged and my boss was not supportive. At the close of this confrence you are told if you are qualified or unqualified for your current position and/or if you should consider something else. I was at a low in self confidence and feared what I was going to hear working for a person that constantly bellitted me. To my surprise they told me my current boss was undermining me, they knew this by comparing his responce to all the others. They also told me that I had CEO abilities and I should consider leaving the company I was with or start my own company. They recommended I take aweek off and sort it all out. So I did and put plans in place to open my own business. Everyone thought I was crazy to take a solid carreer and risk everyhting on opening a business. I always had a passion for interior design and knew this was what I was meant to pursue.
I opened a storefront with a business partner that thrived. After 10 years with a business partner decided to the seperate and open another storefront on my own. I have had B. de Vine, LLC for 13 years now and have enjoyed the freedom to run a business the way I wanted without any other intervention. I wanted to provide the highest level of customer service with unquestionable moral integrity to enable everyone to have the ability to afford to have a professionally designed home. I have a great staff, that have been with me the majority of that time. I trained them to think and execute to the highest standards. Our store is unique. It is not just a furniture store. It is a Hybrid of a furniture store and a design firm. We are full service, giving clients a comprehensive plan that is currated just for them and their needs. We are there to provide project management of their transformation from start to finish. Scheduling all and any resources to complete the vision for their space. We received best in design in Houston for the last 6 years, and rated A+ by the better business bureau. we receive most of our business through word of mouth or by others seeing the results of the transformations we have produced.
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?
It has actually been a very smooth road. The difficult times were having the reponsibility of employees during times when business was challenged. Such as, after a hurrice or flooding, or Covid. Many businesses don’t make it though these challenges as it takes a finacial toll, and if not properly prepared could be devistation. I believe that the business processes I created, and responsible actions in understanding the upcoming callenges has been a key component to success though the tough times.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I believe in timeless design. That means nothing trendy. I have used the same color pallet to decorate with for over 23 years and it has proven solid. If the choices you recommend are timeless then your clients confidence over time builds. They see that what you suggested has lasted though the trends and their investment in their surroundings was a solid choice. When we go to someones space, home, office or business, we take photos measurements and collect information on how the space will be used. Then we go to work, imaging into the photos of their space the recommendations. This eleminates guesswork. It is clearly potrayed, how the space looks now and how it will look after our plan is put in place. The plan is also very comprehensive. So it includes furniture, art, rugs, lighting and any accessories to complete the space. We work hard to eliminate all stress. Our clients dont have to worry about who will iinstall the chandelier, or how do I remove my existing furniture, or who will paint the wall or install the drapes. We take care of it all. We also consult on contructural projects. Illistrating how a room can transform by paint , eliminating walls, or anything inbetween. There is no other business that does this. We are it for Houston and Thus why we also go anywhere our client want us to be. We have done entire homes in other states and outside the country, orchestrating every last detail. We took a home in Wahsington DC from empty to complete down to every last detail in 2 days. We are organized to say the least.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
There are unlimited possibilities.
Pricing:
- Our clients that have engaged with our conulting receive a 20% discount on merchandise
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bdevineinteriors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bdevineinteriors/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BdeVineInteriorDesign/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmBWnjLN5OeLBQsw1KkOf1A
