Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Lackner.
Hi Alyssa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved to Tennessee in 2012 when my parents built their dream home on 80 acres in Columbia—and it was during that process that I fell in love with design. I went on to study Interior Design at O’More College of Design in historic Franklin, completing my degree after Belmont University acquired the college and moved the program to its campus in Nashville. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit passed down from my father and grandfather, I always knew I wanted to build something of my own. During school, I served as Vice President and later President of our campus IIDA chapter, was nominated for multiple student awards, and made the Dean’s List. I interned with Vernich Interiors during my senior year, and after graduation, joined Monarch Lane Interiors, where I grew into a leadership role. In 2023, I was honored as one of the NKBA’s prestigious Thirty Under 30 at the KBIS Industry Show in Las Vegas, recognizing me as a rising voice and leader in the next generation of kitchen and bath design professionals. Still, the dream of starting my own company never left me—and when I finally made the leap to start Graceful Interiors, I quickly understood why it’s both the most rewarding and most challenging decision I’ve ever made..
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting my own business has been both incredibly rewarding and deeply challenging. One of the biggest struggles has been building something where every decision, success, and setback rests on my shoulders. There’s no one else to pass things off to—you’re the designer, the marketer, the bookkeeper, the brand voice, and the visionary all at once. Creating a brand identity that feels personal to me, but also has the strength and flexibility to grow into something bigger, has been a delicate balance. I didn’t want it to just be me, but I also didn’t want to lose the heart behind why I do this work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Graceful Interiors LLC?
Graceful Interiors is a full-service interior design studio specializing in kitchen and bath design that reflects each homeowner’s lifestyle, values, and vision—beautifully and intentionally. Known for my organic modern style and highly organized, transparent process, I focus on creating spaces that feel deeply personal, not driven by my own preferences, but by truly listening to what my clients want for their homes. What sets me apart is my commitment to making the renovation or construction journey less overwhelming. I stay involved throughout the entire process—from design through construction—conducting regular site visits to ensure everything stays on track and that my clients feel supported. I’m incredibly proud of the business I’m building—one rooted in service, trust, and creativity. Whether it’s a one-time design consultation or a full new construction project, I tailor each proposal to meet the client’s specific needs, because no two homes—or families—are the same.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I’ve driven into Nashville almost every day for the past seven years, and while the traffic can definitely test your patience, I truly love this city. What I enjoy most is the balance—it allows me to live a slower, country lifestyle while still having quick access to incredible restaurants, live music, and creative energy. Whether it’s catching a show, trying a new spot, or connecting with new people, Nashville always has something inspiring to offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gracefulinteriorstn.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracefulinteriorstn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Graceful-Interiors/61572560644272/#
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/gracefulinteriorstn/
