Meet Alice Zealy

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alice Zealy a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alice, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

The definition of imposter syndrome is a psychological experience where individuals doubt their abilities and accomplishments, despite external evidence to the contrary.

Personally, I believe we all have self-doubt in different ways whether it’s in our personal lives, at work or (especially) starting and running a business.

As an RV renovator (and woman in construction), I’ve had to overcome my own self doubts as well as outside naysayers. Not necessarily on the design side because that’s one of my God given talents, but learning to build on this level has had its own challenges.

Instead of focusing on what I don’t know, I choose to figure it out – and ask for guidance when necessary – so I’ll know how in the future. I also recognize how much I’ve learned and improved over time. I’ve come leaps and bounds from where I started five years ago. I was very timid and doubtful of my capabilities. After completing over fifteen RV renovations and three van builds from nothing but a metal shell, most days I feel like I can do just about anything. Confidence comes with practice. Always remember, every expert started as a beginner.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I offer customized RV renovations for each one of my clients, taking into account their unique needs, wants and style to create a space that’s not only functional but beautiful. From modern upgrades and stylish interiors to functional layouts and meticulous attention to detail, I breathe new life into every RV I touch. My mission is to enhance the travel experience by blending comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

I’m also a full-time RVer (in my own self-renovated 5th wheel) and an adventure enthusiast who understands the value of a well-designed living space on the road. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time traveler, my commitment is to create a space where you’ll feel at home, no matter where your journey takes you.

I’m currently building a brand new interior for a 1957 Airstream Caravanner that will be used as extra lodging at my client’s river house in Maryland. I’ve worked on vintage campers in the past but this is my first client with an Airstream and I have big plans for this project!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

My journey is somewhat unique since I run a very niche business but hopefully readers can relate.

1. Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Every RV is different with hidden issues like water damage, weak framing, or outdated systems that often appear mid-renovation. Being able to troubleshoot and adjust plans on the fly is key in all types of renovations. However, working in small spaces is much more challenging than a brick and mortar home. RV systems are compact and hidden behind things that seem like eyesores but are necessary to cover plumbing, heating ducts, electrical wiring, etc. These can be tough to work around and although they can be moved or rerun, it’s a lot of time and labor which isn’t always in the client’s budget. Therefore, I have to be extremely creative when designing new floor plans and building around those types of systems.

2. Carpentry & General Handywoman Skills: To reiterate, every RV is different and there is no such thing as a right angle or a perfectly straight wall, floor or ceiling in any camper. Renovating an RV requires precise, space-efficient builds, knowing how to cut (to an exact fit), install, and repair cabinetry, flooring, and framing (often in tight spaces and with lightweight materials) is crucial.

3. Running a Successful Business: Although my main priority is with my clients and working on their projects, there are many other tasks that I have to make time for throughout my day in order to stay successful. Not only do I touch base with my current clients but I also meet with potential clients weekly. I network and collaborate with many people throughout my industry as well as run my own blog and write articles for outside publications. Additionally, a strong digital presence is necessary in my line of work especially since my clientele comes from all over the country. Fortunately, I have an in-house director of marketing (my sister, Mary-Knox Zealy) who captures the hard work I put into each project; providing behind-the-scenes, progress/completion photos and client reveal videos for the website and social media.

How would you describe your ideal client?

I can’t say that there is such a thing as an ideal client (for me). I’ve had clients who are very particular and others who give me free reign to use my creativity and expertise. I thoroughly enjoy working with all types of people to bring their visions to life. Seeing their face during the reveal is the true reward!

However, the characteristics that make an ideal client and the process more enjoyable are:

1. Being passionate about RV living – appreciating the value and impact of a well-renovated RV for travel, full-time living or business purposes.

2. Having a realistic budget and expectations – understanding that quality renovations come at a cost and being willing to invest in materials and labor as well as respecting the time it takes to complete a renovation properly.

3. Having good communication – responding promptly to questions and decisions needed for the project as well as chatting or corresponding on ideas, materials, change orders, etc.

4. Sharing their style, wants and needs – they either have a specific idea of what they want or they’re open to my expertise.
Either way, it’s nice when they provide inspiration photos, layouts, or themes so I can get an idea of what their style is.

5. Being flexible and understanding – they know that unforeseen issues (such as hidden water damage) can arise and they’re patient with timelines, especially when custom work is involved.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Mary-Knox Zealy

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