Ariella Arazi is an interior designer and blogger with a love for design, food, and all things pretty. She’s incredibly passionate about her job and other creative outlets, such as cooking, restaurant reviewing via her blog and curating her Pinterest boards. She’s also the Owner and Lead Designer of her own firm; find out what advice she has for other young professionals in today’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Owner and Lead Designer of Ariella Arazi Interiors, a boutique interior design firm that creates personalized spaces that are warm and modern with a touch of old world vintage charm. I also design a line of handmade Peruvian rugs for Sumaq Rugs, available throughout North America and notably at Collin Campbell, Y&Co and Dominion Rugs.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I was always interested in architecture and interior design. As young as 7, I can remember driving along The Boulevard in Westmount and being mesmerized by the beautiful homes. I was so curious about how they looked inside. I was always drawn to design; I could never enter a room without dissecting every detail. Naturally, interior design was the perfect route to take, and two years ago I decided to go solo and opened my own firm.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is ‘clicking’ with my clients. Some clients find it hard to articulate their needs and style, so when everything is said and done, and I see their face light up with joy, I know I got it – that’s priceless.
The most challenging part is juggling all the different roles I need to play aside from being a designer; a psychologist, referee, project manager, and the not-so-glamorous errand girl.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
My plan is to run my thriving interior design business, further develop my brand, expand my Sumaq rug collection and evolve my designs into a fabric line. My most ambitious goal of all is to be recognized as a style maven, someone whose taste is revered not only in regards to interior design but all things lifestyle.
What does success look like to you?
Being your own boss and loving what you do.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Having one of my rug designs chosen to be included in a high-profile tastemaker’s new home collection, which will be launching this April.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Surround yourself with inspiring, positive and successful people. Observe and learn from them.
I take inspiration from a quote in The Lefsetz Letter. I think this is valid for anyone in their respective career:“If you look around the room, and you’re the smartest person in the room, then you’re in the wrong room.” – Loren Michaels.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I recently worked with the Women’s Philantropy of Federation CJA, along with 200+ volunteers to develop a cookbook called: “Women’s Philantropy Mosaic Cookbook, a Cookbook Celebrating Montreal’s Jewish Culinary Diversity,” with all proceeds going towards women’s causes in the Jewish community. I also enjoy volunteering at CJA’s soup kitchen, Le Cafe.
What to you is notable?
Living your dream without sacrificing what’s important. Being able to lead a balanced, fulfilling life on all levels.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone, can’t live without it!