Today we’d like to introduce you to Haley Winningham
Hi Haley, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Never would I have imagined that what essentially started out as a way to make extra money as a broke college student over 5 years ago, would become a journey to entrepreneurship and owning a business that offers multiple interior design services.
I’ve always had a passion for creativity and my love for interior design developed at a young age. I was captivated by the HGTV channel, obsessively watching shows like Flea Market Flip and a throwback- Trading Spaces. Seeing others transform old-into-new was so intriguing, whether it was a space in someone’s home or an old, junky piece of furniture.
I took Honors Art classes throughout high school and pursued a Graphic Design degree in college, but two years into my major, I began to question my decision. While I enjoyed the general courses related to the history of art and design, I soon realized this industry would require 8 hours a day of illustrative work done strictly behind a screen.
Designing logos, ads, and websites wasn’t quite what I had in mind for myself. Feeling discouraged, I turned to my counselor, (who was also one of my professors at the time) for advice and it was not at all what I expected to hear-
“Haley, you do not need a college degree to be an interior designer.” I left his office in disbelief that those words had just come from the mouth of a college art professor, but I also left his office hopeful. That was the clarity I needed. I decided to drop out.
At this point I did not have a clear direction, but I did have ambition and a passion. I remembered the old free desk I had flipped and sold on Craigslist for $200. If I could do it one time, why not again? That’s all the belief I needed to start what is now my successfully thriving, small business: Pieces of Home by Haley. Not only do I give old furniture modern makeovers, but I have very recently expanded into refinishing cabinets along with other interior projects. My goal is simple- to elevate the style of my client’s space- whether that be through enhancing original features that may be a current eyesore (such as an outdated stone fireplace that needs a refresh) or adding customized, re-designed furniture to complete a room. It’s so rewarding to leave my client with something they can cherish for the years to come.
In fact, business has become so demanding that I’ve teamed up with my mom, who also shares a passion for DIY, for larger projects requiring more hands.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the path to understanding my purpose has definitely had its share of adversities. Dropping out of college was not an easy decision. I felt like I had wasted two years of my life, physically and financially, but at the same time I felt a sense of relief. Unfortunately, there was still the pressure of other’s opinions. I decided against the traditional route of choosing a specific career field, so of course people had their doubts.
However, my biggest word of advice would be to let the doubters be your motivators. Like in my case, your journey is unique and may differentiate from the expectations set by those around you. It’s important to remember that success does not always require a degree or certificate. Discover what your passion is and design your own path based on the talents you’ve been given. I believe my business is a testament to turning an idea into reality and I’m so grateful to each of those who have supported me along the way, especially my amazing husband who has been there since the very beginning.
Getting to create for others is truly a dream that I’m living, and the possibilities are limitless so long as you don’t let others limit you.
I look forward to seeing the continued growth that Pieces of Home by Haley has in store, and I hope to inspire others who want to embrace their business endeavors.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I currently offer a variety of services from refurbishing old furniture to upgrading outdated kitchen and bathroom cabinets. I specialize in modern-contemporary and coastal looks but love to take on any design challenge! Customers have the option to purchase pieces that I have already refinished or customize to their own style preference. I especially enjoy being entrusted with family-heirlooms needing a little restoration love. It’s heart-warming to see a treasured antique serve a new purpose in its home.
Each of my personalized design services begin with an initial consultation. As my client, I will dedicate time to advise on your style, color preferences, and decor favorites, prior to beginning a project. I will often create a mood/inspiration board for clients to look over and finalize. It’s essential that I capture the personality of each individual I work with so that I’m able to create their dream piece or space!
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Absolutely! Pinterest is an enormous source of inspiration and always gets the creative ideas flowing. Not only does it provide artistic content, but it is also a great platform for learning tips and tricks, many of which I have incorporated into my daily craft. Nature is also an element that often does not get the inspirational credit it deserves. I am lucky to live within close proximity to historic downtown Charleston- a city that is rich in history, architecture and elegance. Experiencing the vibrant colors that line the streets, and the scenic landscape of the low country is artistically motivating in itself. I tend to incorporate a lot of these ‘coastal city’ aspects into my designs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/haleydwinningham
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haleydwinningham
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087399614260&mibextid=LQQJ4d
