We were lucky to catch up with Sami Wiley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sami , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
I’ve always been a problem solver. With years of experience in sales and client relations, my goal has always been to offer the best customer service and create memorable experiences. Being solution-oriented allows me to understand my clients’ unique wants and needs when it comes to their personal spaces and styles. While a client might see an area of their home as a problem or an incomplete space, I see it as an opportunity to bring their vision to life, personalize it, and help them tap into their own creative expression.
What excites me is the process of digging deeper into who my clients are—learning about their backgrounds, their passions, their travels—and using that to select pieces that will remind them of what matters most to them. Whether it’s an heirloom, a piece of art, or something from a special trip, these items can create a connection to their own journey and bring motivation into their daily life one piece at a time.
This process not only brings joy to my clients but also fuels my own optimism. Every space has the potential to tell a story, to inspire, and to empower the individuals living in it. I find confidence in knowing that my work helps others feel more connected to their surroundings, and it’s that belief in transformation—both of a space and of a person—that keeps my optimism alive every day.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Created by founder Sami Wiley, a dedicated vintage enthusiast based in Chicago, with a passion for uncovering and breathing new life into unique pieces from around the globe. Over the past three years, she has meticulously collected items that speak to her and spark curiosity, each telling its own story and inviting a deeper exploration of its history.
Sami’s fervor for curating spaces extends beyond aesthetics; she believes that the right connections bring purpose to her work. Whether she’s exploring hidden gems in local markets or traversing great heights to discover treasures worldwide, Sami infuses every project with creativity and warmth. Her keen eye for detail and genuine love for vintage decor transforms spaces into vibrant, meaningful environments that resonate with those who experience them.
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?
I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to call myself a creative. Many people struggle with feeling like they lack creativity, but I truly believe that creativity is something within all of us. The key is finding your outlet, and I have a few pieces of advice for those who want to explore or expand their own creative sides.
1. Interpersonal Communication Skills
Though I work closely with objects, a significant part of my job involves connecting with people—whether they’re designers, architects, homeowners, or business owners. Understanding how to communicate effectively and listen deeply to others has been crucial in bringing my projects to life. The design process is deeply collaborative, so honing these skills is essential.
Advice: My advice to anyone just starting out is to work on building relationships and honing your communication skills. Actively listening and being able to articulate your ideas clearly will always help you navigate the process of turning vision into reality.
2. The Power of Travel
Travel has had a profound impact on my work. Every new place I visit offers inspiration, whether it’s through color, material, architecture, or local crafts. Seeing how different cultures express themselves creatively has opened my eyes to new possibilities in design.
Advice: If you’re early in your journey, make travel a priority if you can. Even short trips or exploring different neighborhoods in your city can expose you to new perspectives that will enrich your style and work.
3. Experimenting with New Hobbies
I’ve always made it a point to try new things, whether it’s sketching, taking a pottery class, or writing poetry. Each new activity offers insights into different parts of my personality, and I learn something valuable every time, whether it’s about myself or about how I approach creativity.
Advice: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Even if you don’t think you’re “good” at something, every new hobby can spark new creative ideas or develop skills that can be applied to your work.
Ultimately, my journey has been about nurturing creativity in all forms—whether through connection, exploration, or simply being open to new experiences. To those just starting out, I’d say: Be curious, stay open, and keep pushing yourself to explore the world around you. The more you expose yourself to, the more you’ll have to bring into your work.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
The past year has been a transformative one for me. Not only did I take the leap to quit my full-time job, but I also expanded my showroom from 700 sq ft to more than triple that size. This was a huge shift, both personally and professionally. Along with that, I’ve embraced new challenges like styling entire homes for clients and handling photoshoots—things I hadn’t done as much of before.
I also started working with personal clients, building strong, meaningful relationships with some incredibly talented designers in my field. I’ve learned to trust my abilities more than ever, and the past year has been about moving forward with confidence—going with my gut, without second-guessing myself.
I think my biggest growth has been in trusting my intuition. Knowing that my ideas resonate not just with my clients, but with myself, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the past year. It’s a reminder that creativity is both personal and collaborative, and when you trust yourself, that’s when the magic happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alacartestudioschicago.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alacartestudios/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiwiley/
Image Credits
portraits: Cecilia Proskauer photographer
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
