Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Clarke.
Hi Maggie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Three years ago I was a stay-at-home mom and fitness instructor. My husband was beginning to invest in rental property in Memphis and I was always busy sprucing up our own home ( interior design has always brought me so much joy). In an effort to monetize our combined passions, we began flipping some of our rental houses and turning them into Airbnbs. They were all gut renovations and I was able to design them from top to bottom.
I had the time of my life and began an Instagram account documenting our progress. One of them ended up being featured in Apartment Therapy and another was featured on Zillow. Soon enough, people began reaching out to ask if I could help them with their personal homes. In just 3 years, I’ve turned Maggie Clarke Interiors from a budget-friendly styling business to a full-service, luxury design firm.
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 wouldn’t say it has been the easiest road. Owning your own business comes with many challenges. From taxes to figuring out processes and how to charge your clients…it’s not for the faint of heart. Not to mention, we welcomed our 3rd child into the family and Covid happened in the midst of it all. It’s been a busy three years!
I have a Master’s degree in Elementary Education, so without an educational background in design, I’ve had to immerse myself in design books and podcasts. in order to learn the business and technical side of things. I am continuously learning so I can better serve my clients and provide them with quality designed spaces that will stand the test of time.
As you know, we’re big fans of Maggie Clarke Interiors. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are a residential interior design firm that provides turn-key service to busy, professional families in the Southeast. We take on a range of projects from new-build construction, home renovations, and room furnishing projects. We enjoy being involved every step of the way. From design concept all the way to styling and finishing touches- we pride ourselves on the fact our that clients don’t have to lift a finger.
From the word go, we collect our clients’ Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, and other saved images to ensure we create a space that looks and feels like them. Our aesthetic can be described as a “refresh on traditional”, but always personality-driven and curated based on the family. We love to incorporate family heirlooms and special vintage finds into the design and mix them with modern-day touches.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I am so lucky to have two amazing women on my team that make processes and procedures go smoothly on a daily basis.
I have big dreams of continuing to grow my team and open a design studio in the near future. I encourage anyone who’s thinking about a career change that’s rooted in passion , to take the leap and give it their all.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maggieclarkeinteriors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggieclarkeinteriors/
Image Credits
Girls at Flourish, Joy Knight Photography, and Stefanie Rawlinson Photography
