In the world of design and entrepreneurship, there shines a model of inspiration: Shannon, the passionate CEO of House of Ponce. Her journey is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s a testament to resilience, dedication to community, and the power of family.
From the outset, Shannon’s commitment as a thriving Interior Designer and to the wider Portland Interior Design community has been unwavering. In the early days, she seized every opportunity to hone her skills, even taking on unpaid projects to build her portfolio. Today, her projects command significant budgets, ranging from $200k to $500k for a home furniture package, a testament to the growth and evolution of her design work.
Her advice for aspiring designers and leaders: Persevere through the highs and lows, to keep pushing forward even when the road seems uncertain.
Changing Priorities
Life always has a way of reshaping our priorities. For Shannon, the birth of her second child, born prematurely, became a catalyst for changing her business. She made the decision to scale down her business, seeking a balance between her professional aspirations and her desire to be present for her growing family. This decision was a pivotal moment that led her to refocus on projects that brought her genuine joy and fulfillment.
Building a Team
Central to Shannan’s success is her emphasis on building a strong team and nurturing meaningful relationships. She understands that her clients are the lifeblood of her business, and her staff is her “Interior Design Family.” Her hiring philosophy reflects her commitment to both cultural fit and skill set. With each addition to her team, Shannon recognizes that harmony is essential for success.
Surprising Inspiration
Shannon’s journey is a gorgeous tapestry, woven with the threads of rich and varied experiences. Before joining the Interior Design community, Shannon worked at Nordstrom where she was able to hone her business acumen. However, she felt drawn toward greater entrepreneurship and decided to dive into Interior Design full-time.
Originally inspired by childhood memories of marveling at the incredible home featured in the movie Home Alone, she remembers pausing multiple times to sketch the floor plan with child-like wonder. Shannon enrolled in the Heritage School of Interior Design program where she gained both the knowledge and confidence to turn her passion for Interior Design into a thriving business.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
What sets Shannon apart is not just her design talent but her genuine care for her clients and team. She leads by example, instilling a sense of camaraderie and dedication within her company. Her passion for Interior Design is eclipsed only by her love for the relationships she fosters along the way.
In a world where success is often measured by profit margins and accolades, Shannan reminds us of the true essence of entrepreneurship: passion, resilience, and human connection. Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring designers and leaders alike, proving that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.
Shannon, the visionary CEO of House of Ponce, is not just shaping spaces; she’s shaping lives and leaving an indelible mark on the world of design.
You can follow along with House of Ponce’s latest projects on their website or via Instagram @houseofponce.design