Long-time friends Vicky Serany and Christi Barbour shared an intimate conversation about the grit, growth, and guiding values that built their thriving design firms.
Vicky Serany, Southern Studio Interior Design
Christi Barbour, Barbour Spangle Design
When Christi Barbour first started out as a designer, her definition of success was being busy and taking on more projects. Today, success means peace, happy employees, and clients who value her team’s work.
Vicky Serany agreed, reflecting on the imposter syndrome that plagued her when she was a new designer. If she could go back and do it over again, she said she would have been “so much braver.”
“I always thought there was this secret rulebook, and everybody had it except me. But it’s not true. We’re all trying to figure things out,” said Vicky.
Both designers are adamant about giving back to the community and helping those lower on the ladder.
“As designers, we need to help and embrace others,” said Christi. “I think it’s important our young friends and designers ask for help, and we have an opportunity to respond to that call. So if you’re new, please ask.”
Events are key for making connections, said Christi, who praised the recent NKBA Women to Women Leadership Conference in New Orleans. “The feeling of collaboration was magical,” she said.
“Find your people. Have random conversations. Then follow up. Some will stick, and some won’t,” said Vicky.
Vicki and Christi say they’ve learned from each other because they do things so differently. Their advice to the design community no matter what stage you’re at: make it a priority to grow relationships with your vendors, reps, and employees. Strong relationships don’t happen overnight. Give first, and give freely. It always comes back in spades.
The pair left the Broad Hall Terrace with a key question:
“Whose corner are you in, and who’s in your corner?”
