Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in home care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Martine Lachapelle, Founder of Déco Martine, located in Montréal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Decorator and Interior Designer. My services include both in-home and online consultations. My aim is to help my clients realize the home of their dreams providing home decor solutions based on their personal style and budget. I provide a variety of services, including mood boards, furniture layouts, shopping lists as well as full-service interior design.
My clients are people who want to create a cozy home environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. They come from all walks of life, including busy professionals, families, and individuals who simply want to freshen up their living space. I work closely with my clients to understand their specific needs and preferences to create customized design plans that reflect their personal style within their budget.
My online consultation is particularly popular among those who may not have the time for in-home visits or who live in remote areas. I use virtual tools and technology to provide personalized design solutions and recommendations. My goal is to make the process of decorating one's home both enjoyable and stress-free.
Tell us about yourself
I came to the Dominican Republic and worked in the tourism sector for many years. I very quickly fell in love with the country and soon bought my first apartment in Cabarete, a small beach town on the North Coast. It was that first apartment where my passion for interior design and decorating began! I particularly love working with natural materials – linen, cotton, rattan, bamboo, and wood – all beautifully suited for the Caribbean lifestyle, where indoors and outdoors meld together in our living spaces. I also like to integrate as many green and recycled products as possible.
I especially enjoy working with local craftspeople and artisans, collaborating with the client to create pieces that will be unique to their home and of high quality. I keep abreast of the latest trends and fashions in design and am always discovering new sources and inspiration. Since that first apartment, I've completed over 20 renovations on rental properties, apartments, condominiums, and villas. Big or small, I love working with my clients to bring beauty and function into their lives. Eventually, I developed my online decoration service and am currently working on a line of beautiful handmade products to sell through my online store.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is having established a successful and profitable company from the ground up. However, the most fulfilling aspect of this achievement has been the personal growth and development that came with it. Being completely true to myself and my values while also recognizing my limitations has allowed me to make confident decisions and lead my business with integrity.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I am very happy to be on my own and to be independent as a business owner; however, one of the hardest things that comes with it is the constant need to take full responsibility for everything. It can be a heavy burden to bear at times, always having to make important decisions and be accountable for the success or failure of the business. Nonetheless, it's a worthwhile challenge that I am willing to face to achieve my goals and build a successful business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Something I think is very important is to surround yourself with good people and collaborators. Second, be clear about who your target clientele is. Last and most important: keep a positive attitude! It is essential to have fun and enjoy the process. It will keep you motivated and inspired and help you get through tough times.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.decomartine.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decomartine.deco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deco_martine/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martine-lachapelle-935b54b8/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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