We had the good fortune of connecting with Aami Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Aami, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I first started my interior styling business, it was by chance. I first started DIYing and home design during the pandemic. Like everyone stuck at home, I was looking for ways to stay busy. I had just moved in to my boyfriend’s, now husband’s home. It was like a blank canvas! Slowly I began sharing out projects online on Instagram. Before I knew it we gained a loyal following and I got asked to design a studio apartment. I realized there were people like me who didn’t know where or how to start styling their homes, much less finding out what your own style even is. I wanted to create a service where I could help new homeowners find their own unique style within a budget and build their dream home. Haven’t looked back since.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m so proud of just going for it. I never excepted people to have interest in my designs. Since my first client- I’ve designed for numerous clients around the nation. The idea of creating a beautiful space and watching it slowly come to life makes my heart so happy. Getting where I am today was hard. Getting that second client and the next and the next was even harder. I was confident in my eye for design and it was something worth fighting for. I kept producing more designs and showing up everyday. I worked hard to maintain a strong client relationship. Once I obtained my bigger clients, the rest was history. I did learn I can’t please everyone. At the end of the day, it’s what makes the client happy. There are certain aspects that makes the design feel more like home for them. Though design wise I know it may not work- it important to listen to your clients. But it’s also important to set boundaries and know your worth. I want the world to know- building your dream home to doable and very achievable.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Atlanta is my soul city. I knew growing up I was raise my family here like my parents raised me. My best friend loves visiting me in Atlanta because there’s always something to do here. And the food culture is out of this world. I’d start off with a rooftop brunch at Gypsy Kitchen, a walk along the belt line grabbing some snacks and drinks along the way, explore the iconic place like GA aquarium and the cola cola factory, and hang out piedmont park for all the vibes. I would definitely place a visit to the farmer’s market in piedmont at least once to enjoy the local eats and support the people.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe who I am to my father and my husband. My father was the reason I love anything and everything creative. I didn’t grow up with much so crafts and drawing were ways to pass the time. My father majored in art and studied for 10 years. Though he gave up his dreams and life in India, he knew he wanted to create a better life for his family more. I want to thank him to always encouraging me to explore that side of me. After my father passed, I met my husband shortly after. My husband is my support system when it comes to my dreams. He always pushes me to be my best self and continue to invest in my passions.
Website: https://www.gujaranicreations.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gujaranicreations/
Image Credits
Sarah Hanson Photography