Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaki Smith.
Hi Kaki, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always had an interest in interior design and how a room can create or enhance a mood. And while I started my career in marketing, I spent a lot of my free time decorating and redecorating my home or would help family and friends with their homes. After gutting and renovating my first house I knew nothing would make me happier professionally than starting my own interiors business.
Then, COVID presented that opportunity. I was laid off from my marketing job and my long-time friend and now business partner called me and said “It’s time” and the rest is history. Noah and I grew up together in Palm City, FL, and then I went to college at Florida State for school, so while Noah is currently based in New York and I’m in Dallas, our Florida ties – specifically in Tampa – run deep.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Hah! We’re learning every single day how to serve our clients better, faster, and in a way that’s unique to them and their needs. Not having been classically trained or interning for a firm before starting my business has meant zero shortcuts or roadmaps to follow. It’s amazing to look back from where we were even a year ago to where we are now and what we’ve learned. It makes me so excited for the future to see how far I can take this.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love to romanticize a space – how it could look, how it could feel, and how the clients would live and move about in that space. That vision paired with really getting to know my clients – not only what they want but what they need from a space is where I think my strengths as a decorator lie.
From a style perspective, I love to incorporate sentimental pieces or the things clients love most in their homes. I always ask during my consultations – “show me all the things you love in your home”. It may be art purchased on a trip, or furniture that’s been passed down for generations, but regardless the answers always help me get to know my clients on a deeper level and usually inspire the final design.
I’m proud that I make sure I’m proud of every single presentation that goes out to our clients. If I don’t have that “feeling”, then you’re going to get a text from me that says “Hey so sorry, I just need a little more time”. I try not to make a habit of that, but you can’t force creativity! I feel like all my clients that have received that text would say it’s typically worth the slight delay.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting.
Get comfortable being uncomfortable and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Also, bring on a good bookkeeper early.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hellquistinteriors.com
- Instagram: @hellquistinteriors
Image Credits
Aaron Dougherty
