Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Wessels.
Hi Laura, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Sure!
I’d say my entrepreneurial story began in college. As an interior design student walking around the UT Knoxville campus, I often dreamed of owning my own design business. This spark led me to pursue a minor in business in addition to my design major.
After college, the path to business ownership was a bit longer than most, as I felt I needed appropriate industry experience first. My first job out of school was at a furniture dealership, and then I worked at two architecture firms, gaining experience in design, project management, and construction documentation. There’s a lot that goes into a design and construction project, and I wanted to build that experience and knowledge.
When 2020 hit, I really ramped up my entrepreneurial efforts, and what had been a slow burn grew faster. I began researching how to start an LLC and interviewed other industry contacts who had opened similar businesses to gain insight. Twelve years after walking the UTK campus dreaming of owning a design business, in June of 2022, I officially took the leap, and opened FACET Design. I had my first client that fall.
Every day I learn something new, not only about my design capabilities, but my personal confidence has grown significantly as well. I truly believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to (with the right help!).
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?
I’ve been lucky that I haven’t experienced any major hurdles or life obstacles while starting a creative business. I would say the biggest challenge, which a lot of small business owners face, is wearing all the hats while running a full service design firm that focuses on both commercial and residential projects. Currently, I’m FACET Design’s business developer, marketer, systems manager, administrative assistant, and designer. Being a good multi-tasker, goal-setter, and a self-driven individual helps accomplish all the roles you take on as a solopreneur. I’ve learned to outsource over the years and humble myself enough to know my limits… which are accounting and figuring out what I owe the IRS!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about FACET Design?
FACET Design is a full-service interior design firm dedicated to transforming multi-faceted spaces with bold, creative, and highly curated design solutions for residential and commercial clients. The firm’s deeply considered and precise design services translate clients’ visions into beautifully executed spaces, allowing them to navigate life or business with ease, confidence, and joy. FACET Design believes a client’s space should be a reflection of their unique identity, purpose, and potential.
Every project is unique, so FACET Design offers a comprehensive range of services including space planning, tenant test fitting, conceptual visionary design, interior specifications, construction documentation, and art & furniture selections.
FACET Design embraces risk-taking, bold elements, and courageous playfulness, while fostering deep partnerships with clients and industry partners. The firm loves pushing creative boundaries in interior design, but never at the expense of a client’s goals and vision. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, FACET Design makes intimate spaces truly pop with intentional, curated designs that deliver a significant impact.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t necessarily attribute my journey to luck, but rather to a profound sense of divine timing. I truly believe the people who have entered my life, and the places I’ve found myself, have appeared at precisely the right moment. For me, this isn’t merely happenstance; my faith leads me to understand that I’ve been purposefully guided to specific individuals and opportunities that have meticulously steered both my business and life’s paths. If I’m ever uncertain about a major decision, I’ll say a prayer, and I’ve consistently felt a certain nudge toward either a person or direction soon after. It’s a perspective that deeply grounds me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.facetdesigntn.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facetdesign_tn/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/facet-design-tn
- Other: hello@facetdesigntn.com
