Today we’d like to introduce you to Michele Gratch.
Hi Michele, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started my design business almost 11 years ago. I grew up in a designer-influenced family, mainly through my mother, but my aunt (her sister) was also a designer. I worked in corporate America after college for years before I spent some time working with my mom at her retail store/design studio in Chattanooga. 5 years later, I decided to open my design firm in Atlanta, and I have never looked back!
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Anyone who owns their business and says it’s easy isn’t being honest. It can be challenging and scary at times. There are so many decisions you have to make along the way like understanding when is the right time to hire employees to help, going from a home office to office space, outsourcing things you aren’t good at or don’t like, for example- accounting/bookkeeping, website, marketing, etc. Also, having a work-life balance can be difficult. I usually work at least one day every weekend, playing catch up and getting invoices out.
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Michele Gratch Interiors?
We offer full-scale residential interior design services. We can help with selections for new builds, full-scale renovations, or interior-only refreshes. I have an uncanny ability to understand a client’s desired aesthetic quickly. I listen attentively to my clients to understand their needs and wants. Knowing how they would like to live in their space and how they want it to function is essential. Most of my clients are busy families who want and value a beautiful home and things but need them to be functional and durable as well as pretty! I am known for using color and pattern but can also design neutral spaces as well. My job is also to push clients outside their comfort zone, which requires a lot of trust!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Having a few good design friends you trust and respect is important. I don’t claim to know everything, and I lean on my design tribe for advice, trade and vendor recommendations, occasional problem-solving, and another trained eye. As designers and business owners, we also support, encourage, and celebrate each other through our struggles, and successes.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michelegratchinteriors.com
- Instagram: michelegratchinteriorsllc
Image Credits
For Burdett drive, Brynwick and Grant Valley-Mark, Mauldin Park, Drive-Emily Followill
