Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Marshburn.
Hi Courtney, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always had a deep love for interior design and fashion—something rooted in my upbringing. My father ran a commercial construction company, while my mother traveled regularly to Europe, sourcing beautiful antiques as an importer. Being surrounded by craftsmanship and refined style from such an early age sparked my enduring passion.
When it came time to choose a major at Texas Christian University, I knew right away that interior design was my calling. From graduation, I dedicated myself to residential design, eager to craft homes that feel both functional and personal.
Over the years, I learned from many wonderful mentors who shaped my perspective and skill set.Their guidance gave me the confidence to embark on my own path.
After my daughter was born, I felt the time was right—and for the past two years, I’ve been running my own design business. Working with so many lovely clients, I’ve steadily grown a thriving practice truly rooted in my design philosophy and personal touch.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It certainly hasn’t been smooth—and I’ve learned so much through the struggle. Learning the business side of design—contracts, pricing, sourcing, marketing—came with a steep learning curve and unexpected expenses. Balancing motherhood (with two kids under two!) and client work pushed me into constant juggling mode, and mom guilt became a familiar companion. Most days felt like I was squeezing design into nap times, all while trying to keep everything organized. Hiring support and building a team was a game changer—it freed up my creative energy and helped me avoid burnout. Emotionally, it’s been about setting realistic expectations, practicing self‑compassion, and creating boundaries that let me be fully present—whether that’s designing for clients or playing with my girls. In short: it hasn’t been easy, but I’ve grown stronger, wiser, and more intentional in both work and life
We’ve been impressed with Courtney Dare Designs, 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?
Courtney Dare Designs is a full-scale residential interior design studio based in Houston, Texas. With a penchant for the eclectic and contemporary, Courtney’s work is a vibrant tapestry blending unexpected pieces and pops of color to create spaces that feel unique and entirely yours. Her design philosophy is rooted in the belief that style should be lived in, not just admired. Courtney fearlessly mixes periods and decor styles, curating and combining textures, unique color palettes, and character-driven furnishings to craft spaces that tell a story.
Any big plans?
I’m excited to continue expanding Courtney Dare Designs, both in team size and brand presence. One of my key goals is to grow our website into a destination for custom and specially curated pieces, all sourced and produced by my team and me. This will allow me to offer unique, high-quality items that reflect our design philosophy. I’m also eager to explore new platforms and opportunities to connect with a broader audience, ensuring that our designs continue to inspire and resonate with clients. Looking ahead, I anticipate many new and exciting projects that will challenge and inspire us, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.courtneydaredesigns.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneydaredesigns/
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