Meet the Founder: Maya Pezzente

Founder Series

Jul 10

**Studio Grey Interior Design**

*Maya Pezzente of Studio Grey Interior Design shares with us some insights of being a business owner, getting started amidst a pandemic, and trusting your gut*
**Based in Vancouver, Canada**

What inspired you to take the idea for your business and make it a reality?

The idea that I could do what I really loved, every day, on my own terms. I always knew I wanted to run my own interior design company, but the shift in work environments and logistics in early 2020 was really the push that the universe gave me to formalise my business. An opportunity was presented to me, and saying “yes” was the catalyst to my own design work really accelerating.

What has been the most difficult part of your entrepreneurial journey?

I wouldn't say it's difficult, but definitely having to take care of so many aspects of running a business. I’m an interior designer by trade, but small business owners have to wear many hats. These "hats" include securing the clients, managing branding and marketing, overseeing social media direction, and handling any daily business administration, on top of executing the actual design work. All of these on their own are full time jobs, necessary to the success of a company.

What has kept you going and inspired while building/running your business?

The end result which is a beautiful home, and a client that loves their space. Design is endlessly inspiring, and even as I am working on one project, I am constantly searching and sourcing inspiration for the next. It really is creating art, and the excitement for the next home keeps me going. I often get design ideas and think, " I have to somehow implement that in an upcoming project!".

“It truly is my belief that your home environment has a profound impact on your well being and can bring joy and beauty to your everyday life. Seeing this come to fruition for clients is what keeps me going.”

What has been the best decision you made in your business?

The best decision has been choosing to shamelessly follow my instinct, and outsourcing various tasks when I need to. This makes my workload manageable and allows me to focus on what I truly love, which is the design work.

Any advice for other women wanting to start a business?

Follow and trust your instinct, be authentically yourself and everything else will fall into place. It's equal parts hard work, trusting your gut when it comes to any business decisions, and by being your most true self I believe you attract the most rewarding business opportunities.