SLHL: What is the first step you take in a project?

Teddy: I like to get to know the clients and make them feel comfortable. I remind them that it is their home, and my job is to make the design process easier and help them to create a beautiful place to live. I like to say, "If it's not fun anymore, we're doing it wrong!" Beyond that, I like to choose a starting point to work with, such as a rug, existing piece of furniture or Grandmother's needlepoint pillow, then work up from that.

SLHL: How did you know you wanted to be a designer?

Teddy: As a kid, I feel like I was always creating or designing something. I started out designing and sewing bridal and evening wear and transitioned to interior design. My true passion is fabric, so it's a win!

SLHL: What was your favorite project?

Teddy: I worked with an amazing couple in Illinois on their family home. When they decided to downsize to a home with a main level master suite, they asked me to help them decide what to bring and where to put it. It was so much fun moving things around and repurposing them in different rooms. They were amazed how so many of their things worked, but not necessarily where they thought they would.  It made the transition easier for them.

Pro Tip: I like to keep a room in a constant state of transition. I don't like a room that looks like a time capsule.  If you freshen up pillows or reupholster a tired piece, there's always something new and it will never look out-of-date.