Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Dike.
Hi Erica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my professional career as a systems engineer. It was the perfect job for my degree (Management Information Systems) but it was not the perfect job for me. After working in IT for a year, I decided that I wanted to spend my time doing work that I was passionate about. I designed my first Airbnb property in 2017 when the Super Bowl came to Houston. That experience created opportunities for me to explore my passion for interior design. I discovered that it was something I was really good at and thoroughly enjoyed. In 2019, I went all in and opened my design firm. Now I use my system engineering skills to run a process-driven design firm for busy professionals.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Transitioning from one field to another has been quite the journey. While I may have the skills to design stunning spaces, I had to learn about how to run and market a business. Growing my portfolio was my biggest hurdle. It’s hard trying to sell a luxury service without any proof. I had to get creative and even do some work for free. Growing my portfolio was key to growing my business. I’m still working and learning about other ways to market and share my services. There are lots of responsibilities that come with owning a design firm. You never really stop learning but you also have to train your mind to find the lesson in every setback.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Erica Ooh Designs specializes in designing stunning spaces for busy professionals. My design process is tailored to fit in with demanding careers. Our design timeline moves faster because we ONLY create designs with in-stock pieces. That means we can bring unique spaces, layered in rich patterns and textures to life quickly. Our firm is a safe space for professionals to come in overwhelmed, with no idea where to start and leave excited to enjoy their new space.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I am an introvert and I’m terrified of public speaking. I created my system-based design approach to work with professionals like me that want a well-designed space without all the extra input. However, when it comes to interior design, I can talk about it for hours.
Pricing:
- Virtual Design (starts at $785)
- Full-Service Design (starts at $5,000)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ericaooh.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ericaoohdesigns
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ericaoohdesigns
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/ericadike
