1. What inspired you to transition from interior design to establishing your bespoke interior studio, “Style & Spaces”?
My transition from interior design to establishing my bespoke interior studio, “Style & Spaces,” was inspired by a combination of factors rooted in my passion, creativity, and desire for personalized design solutions. My journey began with a deep-seated love for creativity and design, which I cultivated through professional courses and workshops in interior design. This passion led me to work as a freelancer and eventually as a Senior Interior Designer, gaining valuable experience and insights into the industry. However, my entrepreneurial spirit and the need for more customized and unique design solutions for my clients fuelled my decision to launch “Style & Spaces.” I envisioned a studio that goes beyond traditional interior design approaches and focuses on creating bespoke designs tailored to each client’s space, style preferences, and requirements.
This concept resonated with my commitment to attention to detail and providing a perfect experience for my clients. The support and encouragement from my family, friends, and clients further motivated me to establish “Style & Spaces.” The overwhelming appreciation from the Lucknow community and my growing clientele reinforced my belief in the concept of bespoke designs and the need for personalized interior solutions. In summary, my transition from interior design to founding “Style & Spaces” was driven by my passion for creativity, my entrepreneurial vision for personalized design solutions, and the support and encouragement I received from my community. to each client’s space, design preferences, and requirements.
2. Could you provide some insights about your creative process and the ways that you incorporate fashion, comfort, style, and passion into your designs?
My creative process at “Style & Spaces” is deeply rooted in my passion for design, comfort, style, and fashion. When conceptualizing and executing designs, I focus on blending these elements seamlessly to create spaces that not only look visually appealing but also offer the utmost comfort and functionality. Fashion plays a significant role in my designs as I believe that interior design is a reflection of personal style. I draw inspiration from the latest fashion trends, colours, textures, and patterns to infuse a sense of style and sophistication into each project. Whether it’s incorporating trendy furniture pieces or selecting fabrics and finishes that are in vogue, I strive to create spaces that are not only timeless but also fashion-forward. Comfort is another crucial aspect that I prioritize in my designs. I believe that a well-designed space should not only look good but also feel comfortable and inviting. I carefully select furniture, lighting, and accessories that enhance comfort and functionality without compromising on style. Style is at the heart of everything I do at “Style & Spaces.” I aim to create unique and personalized designs that reflect the individuality of each client. From classic and timeless designs to bold and contemporary styles, I tailor my approach to meet the diverse needs and preferences of my clients. Passion drives me to go above and beyond in every project. I pour my heart and soul into creating spaces that not only meet but exceed my client’s expectations. This passion fuels my attention to detail, commitment to quality, and dedication to providing a perfect experience for every client. In essence, my creative process revolves around incorporating fashion, comfort, style, and passion into every aspect of design, ensuring that each project at “Style & Spaces” is a true reflection of my clients’ personalities and lifestyles.
3. Describe the challenges you encountered when starting “Style & Spaces” and how you overcame them to be successful.
Starting “Style & Spaces” came with its fair share of challenges, especially in a competitive market like Lucknow. One of the primary hurdles was establishing myself as a credible interior designer, particularly because the market dynamics weren’t initially favourable for someone like me. Being a charming young woman, there were doubts about whether I could handle such a big business alone, deal with carpenters and workers, visit sites alone, and be taken seriously by industry professionals. These doubts were not just external; they also crept into my thoughts at times. However, I was determined to follow my heart and prove that gender or societal perceptions wouldn’t limit my success. To overcome these challenges, I relied on my passion for interior design and my commitment to delivering exceptional service.
I focused on quality, attention to detail, and personalized experiences for each client. Building strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and industry contacts became crucial in establishing credibility and trust. I also leveraged the support and encouragement of my family and friends, especially my husband, Mr. Manoj Agarwal, who believed in my vision and stood by me every step of the way. One of the most memorable moments in my entrepreneurial journey was the overwhelming appreciation and love from the Lucknow community and my clients. Their positive feedback and satisfaction with our work were incredibly rewarding and reinforced my belief in the concept of “Style & Spaces.” Every satisfied client, every successful project, and every positive word-of-mouth recommendation were milestones that fuelled my passion and determination to succeed. Looking back, I realize that overcoming these challenges wasn’t just about proving others wrong; it was about proving myself right. It taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of staying true to my vision despite obstacles. These experiences continue to influence my approach to business and design, reminding me that with passion, hard work, and a supportive community, anything is possible.
4. What inspired you to start “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre” and enter the skincare sector?
I was inspired to start “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre” and enter the skincare sector due to my belief in the limitless potential of women in entrepreneurship. With the unwavering support of my husband and my strategic mindset, I embarked on this new venture despite facing challenges. My goal was not just personal success but also to empower other women to embrace opportunities and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. This belief in women’s capabilities and the desire for personal growth and success motivated me to enter the skincare industry, where I could make a difference and leave my mark. The journey wasn’t easy, and I faced numerous challenges along the way. However, my determination and strategic approach helped me overcome these obstacles and establish “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre” successfully. I believe that every woman should aspire for personal growth and choose her path to success, and I wanted to lead by example in this regard. My ability to manage multiple ventures simultaneously reflects my belief that there are no limits to what women can achieve when they set their minds and believe in the potential of women in entrepreneurship. It has been a rewarding journey, I continue to strive for excellence and success in diverse business domains, proving that the sky’s the limit for my aspirations and those of other women in the entrepreneurial realm.
5. How did you navigate the challenges of breaking into a new field and what tactics did you use to establish yourself in the skincare sector?
Navigating the challenges of breaking into a new field, particularly the skincare sector, required strategic planning and determination on my part. I employed several tactics to establish myself in this sector. Firstly, I conducted thorough research and market analysis to understand the skincare industry’s trends, demands, and competition. Leveraging my existing network and connections in the business world, I established contacts within the skincare sector, which provided valuable insights, opportunities, and partnerships. Offering high-quality services and treatments at Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre was crucial, as positive reviews and satisfied clients contributed significantly to establishing credibility and attracting new customers. Demonstrating professionalism, expertise, and knowledge in skincare treatments and technologies helped build trust with clients and differentiate my business from competitors.
Effective marketing strategies, such as targeted advertising, social media presence, and branding efforts, helped promote my skincare centre and reach the target audience. Additionally, I prioritized continuous learning and adaptation to remain updated with the latest skincare advancements, techniques, and customer preferences. In short, my navigation of challenges in entering the skincare sector involved a combination of strategic planning, networking, offering quality services, showcasing expertise, effective marketing, and continuous learning, which contributed to establishing my presence and success in the skincare industry.
6. In what ways has your spouse, Mr. Manoj Agarwal, assisted you in your entrepreneurial endeavours?
My husband provided emotional support to me throughout my entrepreneurial journey. Starting and managing businesses can be stressful, and having a supportive spouse can help navigate challenges and maintain motivation. My husband has provided financial support or contributed to funding my entrepreneurial ventures, enabling me to pursue my goals. As a partner, he has offered strategic advice and insights into business decisions. His experience or expertise in a few areas could have been valuable in shaping the direction of my business. His network and connections in the business community have been very beneficial. Managing multiple ventures requires effective time management and balance and we both have played a role in balancing responsibilities.. Collaborative problem-solving and decision-making are crucial in entrepreneurship. My husband has contributed ideas, perspectives, and solutions to overcome challenges. Encouragement and motivation from a spouse can be empowering. His support has inspired me to stay focused, resilient, and passionate about my entrepreneurial endeavours.
7. As a successful businesswoman who oversees several projects at once, what guidance would you offer to other women who want to follow their entrepreneurial dreams?
As a successful businesswoman overseeing multiple projects simultaneously, I offer valuable guidance to other women aspiring to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Firstly, believe in yourself and your capabilities. Confidence and self-belief are the driving forces that will propel you forward, even in the face of challenges. Secondly, develop a strategic mindset. Set clear goals, create a roadmap, and prioritize tasks effectively. Time management and organizational skills are crucial in managing multiple projects efficiently. Networking is another key aspect. Build strong relationships, seek mentorship, and surround yourself with a supportive network of like-minded individuals. Networking opens doors to opportunities, partnerships, and valuable insights. Continuous learning is essential. Stay updated with industry trends, acquire new skills, and embrace lifelong learning. Adaptability and flexibility are vital in navigating the ever-evolving business landscape. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Entrepreneurship involves stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing challenges. Learn from failures, iterate, and keep pushing forward with determination. Maintain a healthy work-life balance. Prioritize self-care, manage stress effectively, and carve out time for relaxation and rejuvenation. A balanced life enhances productivity and creativity. Lastly, persevere and stay resilient. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs. Stay focused on your vision, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward with unwavering determination. By following these guidelines and staying committed to your entrepreneurial goals, you can turn your dreams into reality and make a meaningful impact in the business world.
8. What role do you believe women play in shaping the future of entrepreneurship, and how can they leverage their skills and experiences to excel in diverse business domains?
Women bring fresh ideas, creativity, and innovation to the entrepreneurial landscape. My journey from interior design to skincare entrepreneurship exemplifies how women can blend creativity, style, and passion to create unique business concepts and solutions. I believe that determination and resilience are key traits that many women entrepreneurs possess. Despite facing challenges, I persevered and succeeded in establishing both “Style & Spaces” and “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre.” Women can leverage their determination to overcome obstacles and achieve their entrepreneurial goals. As a women entrepreneur, I often serve as role models and mentors for other aspiring women in business. By sharing experiences, knowledge, and insights, I try to empower and inspire the next generation of female entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and succeed in diverse business domains.
Women are known for their adaptability and versatility, which are essential qualities in entrepreneurship. I can manage multiple ventures simultaneously that demonstrate how women can leverage their skills and experiences to excel in various business domains.
In conclusion, women play a multifaceted role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship by bringing innovation, determination, empowerment, adaptability, networking prowess, and values-driven approaches to the business world. They can leverage their skills, experiences, and unique perspectives to excel in diverse business domains and inspire others to embrace self-growth, multitasking, and continuous improvement in their entrepreneurial endeavours.
9. Could you tell us about a memorable success story or a moment from your entrepreneurial journey that has had a long-lasting influence on you?
From being a graduate in Biochemistry to becoming a successful interior designer and entrepreneur in Lucknow, I have one of the most memorable success stories from my entrepreneurial journey that has had a lasting influence on me is the inception and growth of my bespoke interior studio, “Style & Spaces.” It all began with a deep-rooted passion for design and a desire to create spaces that resonate with comfort, style, and fashion. After completing my MBA in interior design and gaining valuable experience working for various corporate houses, I realized that my true calling lay in creating personalized, exquisite designs that reflect the unique essence of each client. The journey wasn’t without its challenges. The initial phase as a freelance designer in Lucknow presented obstacles, but my determination and refusal to compromise on quality and creativity propelled me forward. The turning point came when I attended some big events in Lucknow. This led to the launch of my first gala winter exhibition titled “Fashion Phenomenon,” which garnered immense success and recognition as a budding fashion entrepreneur. With each subsequent exhibition, my vision expanded to encompass catering to diverse tastes and budgets while maintaining a focus on quality and affordability. This journey has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the power of perseverance. It has instilled in me a belief that entrepreneurship is not just about business but about creating meaningful experiences and spaces that impact lives positively. The continuous learning and growth in these fields have shaped my entrepreneurial mindset, guiding me to constantly innovate, evolve, and strive for excellence in every project.
10. What are your plans and objectives for “Style & Spaces” and “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre” going forward, and how do you intend to keep empowering women in the realm of entrepreneurship?
Moving forward, my plans and objectives for “Style & Spaces” and “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre” are deeply rooted in empowerment and innovation, particularly for women in entrepreneurship. For “Style & Spaces,” my goal is to continue creating stunning designs that blend comfort, style, fashion, and passion, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. I aim to expand our portfolio by taking up more styling and interior turnkey projects for both households and commercial spaces. Additionally, I intend to enhance our offerings with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly design practices, aligning with the growing global emphasis on environmental consciousness.
As for “Derma Advance Skin, Laser & Hair Centre,” the objective is to further establish our presence in the skincare industry by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and personalized treatments. I plan to introduce innovative skincare solutions and expand our services to encompass a comprehensive range of skin, laser, and hair treatments. Moreover, I am committed to promoting self-care and confidence among our clients, empowering them to embrace their natural beauty and feel confident in their skin.
In terms of empowering women in entrepreneurship, I believe in leading by example. My journey, marked by determination, resilience, and the ability to manage multiple ventures simultaneously, serves as an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs. I aim to mentor and support other women in pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement along the way. Additionally, I strive to create a supportive and inclusive work environment within my businesses, where women can thrive and excel. My vision is to continue pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and fostering a culture of empowerment and growth, not only within my ventures but also within the broader entrepreneurial community. Through strategic planning, dedication to quality, and a passion for making a positive impact, I am confident in achieving these objectives and contributing to the advancement of women in entrepreneurship.
Team WS
