Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mae Brunken. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Mae with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic was instilled in me at a young age by my father. He always told me that you had to work hard to get ahead and he led by example. The importance of a good work ethic became even more apparent when I worked as a set decorator in the film business. The hours were long, the jobs were hard and if you didn’t perform there were several qualified people to take your place the next day. Yet, it was very gratifying to meet deadlines and complete jobs that at times times felt impossible
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an interior designer, I’m focused on making peoples lives better through their living spaces. It’s not only about making a project pretty, but your environment can also effect your mental and physical health. I am most excited about lifting client’s up and creating both peaceful and optimistic spaces. We also have an opportunity to select objects that enhance a healthy lifestyle and support the environment.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Persistence- It isn’t always easy and some clients truly make you wonder if it’s worth it. If it’s your passion, stick with it. The next client will be better.
Education – Even though many designers working today did not go to school for design, I would advise learning how to draw and read architectural plans to scale at the very least in order to do avoid making costly mistakes. Additionally, knowledge of history in architecture and furniture is important to understand how styles mix together..
Learn to listen- Often times, designers create a space that they want to create when the job is to listen to what the client wants. Sometimes the client doesn’t know what they want, but if you listen, they will tell you in their own way,. The job of the designer to create something better than they could have imagined, but still give them what they want.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is someone who let’s me do my job and has a realistic budget that allows me to meet their expectations. Ideally they would also be kind, considerate and respectful to both me and my team. When someone hires a professional, but also seeks the opinions of friends and relatives, or tries to undercut the pricing, the project becomes muddled and doesn’t allow for the best results.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maebrunkendesign.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maebrunken/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maebrunkendesign
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maebrunken/
Image Credits
Ursula Vari (image 3)
