We recently had the chance to connect with Reba Kaufman and have shared our conversation below.
Reba, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I need to reset or searching for inspiration, the outdoors call my name. Being surrounded nature makes time disappear, fills my heart and recharges my soul. Whether its hiking with my 2 pups, hitting the slopes for some skiing, or enjoying the peacefulness of the water on a paddle board. The shadows and textures created as sunlight dances through the trees, the rustle of leaves by a cool breeze, hillsides painted with wild flowers … beautiful creation is everywhere.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My roots are in Montana, cattle ranching was the way of life. Yellowstone is where my love for nature and beauty began. Early on, I would day dream about creating spaces that celebrated nature. Through my search for education, I fell in love with Interior Design and Architecture. I explored both Residential and Commercial design but the personal relationships built through the design experience with Residential is where my heart is. I’ve been blessed to work on a wide range of design projects across Colorado, bringing influences of the Montana spirit and love for nature to each of my projects.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
In high school, I was a volunteer ski instructor for the Special Olympics. These athletes changed me, I had never experienced such pure happiness and joy for life. Being able to help them learn to ski and achieve their goals on the ski mountain helped me realize the difference I could make in the world. I came away with a new outlook on life seeing it through their eyes and my hunger to live life to the fullest and help others find that same Joy began.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear of failure is very powerful. There is a phrase that has helped me face this fear – “Failure is a detour, not a dead-end street.” It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed. Starting my own company was a leap of faith and having no prior business experience challenged my confidence. Experiencing failure has been my greatest teacher and has helped me grow personally and with my company in the direction that speaks to my heart.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
The importance of connection. Creating a space for people to feel seen, heard, and valued whether its personal or professional. These bonds are so important, and when supported beauty & creativity flourishes.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I’m currently tap dancing! This year is the busiest my company has been to date. I’m blessed to be on the design team for custom homes in Tabernash, Steamboat, Pagosa Springs, and Vail. Approaching each day with this level of excitement has brought new levels of creativity! And this has given me the opportunity to continue the growth of my company.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rebaldesign.com
- Instagram: @rebaldesign2
- Facebook: rebaL design llc
Image Credits
Photographer credits: Gavin Photography – Kimberly Gavin www.kgavinphotography.com
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
