Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Strommen.
Hi Heather, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m a writer first and a decorator second. I started my debut novel, VELVET, in a creative writing class thirty years ago. A few years back, I created the possibility of living powerfully and creatively, joined a writing group (Twin Cities Writing Studio,) hired an editor, and finished my novel. My writing mentors mentioned early on that publishers “want to know who you are,” so I started an Instagram @sweetshadylane based on the design vignettes I created in my home. Little did I know that people would connect with Sweet Shady Lane, a business would be built off it, and followers would start to feel more like friends.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Trying to get a book published is never an easy task. At times, it can be very daunting. I queried some big reaches and got beautiful rejections. Most said, “this sounds wonderful, but I’m swamped.” I kept those “this sounds wonderful” in my back pocket and pulled them out whenever I was discouraged. Luckily, I took an online seminar with Anne Lamott (author of BIRD BY BIRD and many other beautiful books), and when asked what advice she had for new authors, her response was like an adrenaline shot. “Self-publish, self-publish, self-publish.” I leaned into her word and left with a renewed attitude and belief. I knew I had a special story and a built-in audience; I needed a little help. That’s when I sent my manuscript to Publish-Her Press.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a storyteller: with my words and with interiors. I create Storied Designs and help clients tell their own stories throughout the rooms in their homes. I specialize in creating rooms that make you feel something. I like emotional touches: photos, artwork that reminds you of a special time, wallpaper, antiques, and dreamy lighting. I’m most known for the home we restored that we called Mona Bina-Home For All. It was a 1938 lake home, and it was lovely. We recently sold it (downsizing) and are restoring another older home we lovingly call Little Oak. I’m most proud of my debut novel, VELVET, and for honoring my commitment to living powerfully and creatively.
What sets me apart from others? Hmmm, that’s a tricky question because it feels like it has some ego attached to it. I know I’m willing to fight for the gifts I’ve been given. Here’s the deal, I listened to the imposter syndrome voice until I was strong enough to round-house kick it right out the door. If anything, I think that can set someone apart from others. You have to be willing to fight.
Are books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I’m an avid reader, and I love a good Podcast. My writing group, Twin Cities Creative, is always sharing their favorite reads and podcasts, so I’m lucky that my friends always share what touched, moved, and inspired them. I love a good memoir. I recently watched, Better Call Saul and had a little crush on Bob Odenkirk (my husband is in full support) and read his book, Comedy, Comedy, Comedy, Drama, and ate it up. I also loved Molly Shannon’s memoir, Hello Molly. In writing Anne Lamott’s Bird By Bird. Stephen King, On Writing. For novels, I can get lost in anything by Ann Patchett, Emily Henry, and Philippa Gregory. Podcasts I adore are the RobCast with Rob Bell, my friends at Pop Culture Preservationist Society always keep me company, and who doesn’t love Arm Chair Expert with Dax Shepard? For design, I used to devour home magazines. Now I scour Instagram design accounts (check out who I follow) and design books like it’s my job. Well, it is my job. My favorites; are Cathy Kincaid, G.P Schafer, Ashly Whittaker, and Philip Mitchell, to name a few.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sweetshadylane.com
- Instagram: @sweetshadylane
- Other: @heatherstrommenwrites
Image Credits
Headshot: Beylén Fleming -Belu Photography-beluphotography.com Home shots: Ashley Sullivan-ashley-sullivan.com VELVET cover art: Noah Saterstrom
