Today we’d like to introduce you to Goldie Graham.
Hi Goldie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My name is Goldie Graham, and I’m the founder of Golden Design Group. I live and breathe for all things interior design, home editing, real estate, and project management. At Golden Design Group, we create intentional spaces, keeping budget, efficiency, and style at the forefront of our gold-standard experience.
When covid hit, and traveling for work came to a halt, I purchased my first home in Excelsior and was able to make all of my interior design dreams come true. Ok, maybe not all of them, because let’s be real, a budget is always a factor, but I was able to put my love of design and functionality into practice for my sanctuary. I managed 11 contractors in my home, often simultaneously, like a beautiful construction symphony. I found myself grounded, loving every moment of the experience even when shit hit the fan. I am a problem solver. A self-starter. A visionary, sure, but much more of an executor than anything else.
I was told on-site by one of the general contractors who came to visit, “Hey you could have a job in this field. You’re impressive.” In my humble opinion, I think he was just surprised to see a confident woman, unafraid to push the envelope and hold her own when it came to getting things done and managing people.
When my home was complete, I received my real estate license out of sheer desire to just keep gaining knowledge of the industry. Knowing where I come from, this makes sense, as I “grew up in real estate.” My parents have been in the business for over 45 years, first starting in Minnetonka in 1976 as the first husband/wife team in the city. It’s in my blood!
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Any time you’re starting your own business there are roadblocks, never-ending to-do lists, and a host of ups and downs.
Because I’m a problem solver, I don’t mind a detour here and there. It’s all about believing in yourself, your purpose, and knowing the only person standing in your way is you.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
One of my many design skills is creating an expensive, but not uptight space on a very small budget. I’m known for using color and texture in a way that’s bold and playful while keeping the tone-on-tone chic-ness of a calm and refined space.
Some would say interior decorators are really in the business of people, and I would have to agree. I pride myself on open communication, executing with efficiency like you’ve never seen before, and being able to work around the clock to get a job done.
I like to think the way we represent ourselves to the world with our own personal style is almost like a walking billboard for how we feel about our home. There’s an alignment there for some, and I love when it matches up.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
I firmly believe that with perseverance and a passion to succeed, luck sprinkles its magic along the way, weaving in and out of the already disciplined actions one is putting in. I think luck and hard work hold hands. You can’t have one without the other.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.goldendesigngroupmn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golden_design_group_mn/
Image Credits
Nick Wang https://www.nick-wang.com
