If you know me, you know I love to collaborate and support fellow women entrepreneurs and business owners ... which is why I am thrilled to feature in this latest blog post Kristen Alcorta, interior stylist and owner of the wonderful boutique Pursuing Vintage.
Photo courtesy of Pursuing Vintage
I met Kristen years ago when I was first launching Mira Jean Designs. We actually met at a pop up show (something I don't do anymore ... but back when I started my business and pre-Instagram days, it was such a helpful way to get out there and get instant feedback from clients on new designs!). Over the years, Kristen and I have supported one another's businesses, become clients, and (the best part!) friends.
I so admire Kristen and her sense of style. She is kind, courageous, and has an innate ability to find THE most beautiful vintage finds in the area. She is also one of the nicest people you will ever meet - truly! (Fun fact: she has roots in the Midwest ... no wonder one instantly likes her!).
If you're in / near DC and want home decor inspiration, I highly recommend scheduling an appointment to meet Kristen at her new boutique in Falls Church, or calling her to help you style your home. You can also check out her latest home decor finds and simply shop online here. (One of my personal favorites is this porcelain giraffe ... absolutely Stunning!!).
This porcelain giraffe!!! Absolutely stunning. Reminds me of my childhood years growing up in Africa, where my passion for textile design first began. (Photo courtesy of @Pursuing Vintage).
I'm thrilled to share more on Kristen's work; her styling tips and favorite home decor finds ... and of course, her advice for fellow creative entrepreneurs. Enjoy!
xo,
Kate
p.s. Local friends: you might have seen some of our abstract paintings in Kristen's boutique in Falls Church. In celebration of her work and our collaboration, ALL abstract paintings in our online shop are 20% off! Now thru Feb. 15th. (Simply enter code: BEMYVALENTINE upon checkout). If you're thinking about buying something special for your loved one's home or office, go for it while you can save 20%! Happy Valentine's Day/month!! xoxo
MJD: What is one of your favorite finds?
KA: This is such a trick question because I find so many pieces that I absolutely love! My favorite find that I've kept for myself (a serious occupational hazard!) is my dining room chandelier. It's multi-tiered with lucite prisims -- when we replaced our old piece with this one it instantly changed the space and gave it a little extra funky-glam that I love! My favorite piece in the shop right now is a vintage gold pagoda-topped Chinoiserie mirror. It is so fabulous and truly a statement piece!
A Pagoda-topped(!) mirror ... just one of the many fab vintage finds Kristen finds on a regular basis. (Photo courtesy of Pursuing Vintage).
Above: one of my personal faves: these two reindeer candlestick holders. This pair was meant to be together! (Photo courtesy of Pursuing Vintage).
MJD: What is one of your 'go to' interior styling tips?
KA: Layers! I am not a minimalist. Layers of interesting pieces can tell a story. Use large coffee table books as bases -- and titles that you find interesting!. Choose 2-3 smaller objects of varying textures to place on top of the books. Candles, brass pieces and small succulents all work well. It's always nice to have something natural in a vignette, and succulents are low-maintenance and the perfect size for coffee tables and shelves.
MJD: Recently, you expanded your business to include interior styling services. Tell us why you love working with designers to style projects.
KA: Each designer truly has their own style and their own way of working. Each project I work on is completely different, which keeps it fresh and exciting!
MJD: What advice would you offer fellow creative women business owners?
KA: Get to know other women business owners and be a supporter! There is room for everyone, and we all do better when we collaborate and lift each other up. And most of all, enjoy the new friendships that will arise from surrounding yourself with talented, creative women! ###