We were lucky to catch up with Courtney Otte recently and have shared our conversation below.
Courtney, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I think the trajectory of one’s purpose evolves over time. From a young age I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur, particularly in the field of interior design. I can recall as a young child drawing floor plan sketches of how we would add an addition onto our backyard house. Transitioning into young adulthood, I established my business post-college at the age of 22, finding profound fulfillment in crafting aesthetically pleasing and accessible living spaces for homeowners.
However, as the demands of business ownership intertwined with the responsibilities of our growing family of 3 littles, my sense of purpose expanded. I discovered a newfound fulfillment in assisting busy clients in creating their dream homes, a task they lacked the time to design and execute themselves. This dual role as a dedicated business owner and devoted parent has instilled a deeper purpose within me.
Beyond the professional realm, my business serves as a pillar of support for my family, setting an impressionable example for my daughter: that one can achieve professional success while actively engaging in the joys of parenthood.”
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I came into this role at a very young age without much industry knowledge. Over time, I’ve developed my skills and grown my design practice into a solid team, including another designer and an office admin.
For over a decade, I operated the business from my home office, during which time my employees also worked from for three years. On January 4, 2023 we celebrated a significant milestone by closing on our new office building which coincided with the birth of my third child on that very same day.
As the founder and CEO of The Modern Hive Interior Design, my role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. While a considerable portion of my week is dedicated to CEO duties, the most exhilarating aspect of my profession remains the hands-on design work for our clients.
Each design project unfolds through a series of events, crucial for delivering a seamless client experience and achieving exceptional outcomes. From client onboarding to precise technical measurements, from crafting layouts and 2D elevations to curating materials and drafting comprehensive presentation documents, every detail is an important step to a final result. Personally, I find great joy in creating 3D models and sourcing materials to recommend to our clients—undoubtedly my favorite part of the job.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve found that three qualities have been paramount: ambition, perseverance, and self-investment.
Firstly, maintaining ambition and perseverance has been crucial. Despite moments of doubt and temptation to quit, I’ve realized that perseverance is a cornerstone for any entrepreneur. It’s the drive to keep going, even when challenges seem insurmountable, that ultimately leads to success.
Secondly, investing in myself has been transformative. While it can be daunting to prioritize self-investment, whether through time, money, or commitment, it’s essential for growth. I’ve dedicated resources to professional development, seeking guidance from experts, improving systems, and nurturing my mental well-being. These investments have propelled me forward and enhanced my skills as an entrepreneur.
Lastly, embracing discomfort and continuous learning have been pivotal. Growth often requires stepping out of comfort zones and embracing uncertainty. I’ve learned to push past boundaries, whether by rebuilding aspects of my business or delving into new areas of knowledge. Being open to learning and adapting has been a major contributing factor in my journey.
To those embarking on their own design or entrepreneurial journey, I’d offer this advice: Seek out mentors or supportive communities, as their guidance can be invaluable. And most importantly, don’t wait for the perfect moment to start. Begin now, even if you feel unprepared, because every step forward is a step toward growth and success.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I’d be thrilled to connect with homeowners who are ready to invest in crafting their dream living space and discuss how our process can bring their vision to life.
Your home isn’t just a place; it’s your sanctuary. Research has shown that a well-designed environment positively impacts daily living, mental well-being, and productivity. Curating such a space requires detailed planning and a proven system. At The Modern Hive, we’ve honed our process through years of experience, blending innovative design with a seamless approach that ensures a stress-free experience for our clients and delivers unforgettable spaces to cherish for years to come.
For those interested in collaborating, more information about our services and how to get in touch with us can be found on our website at www.themodernhive.com.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram @themodernhive for an exclusive peek into our process, ongoing projects and completed projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.themodernhive.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themodernhive/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheModernHive
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneyotte/
Image Credits
Mandy McGregor Photo
