We had the good fortune of connecting with Julie Montgomery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julie, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
Be authentic to who you are. Have a regular 360 degree overview of you- what you’re doing, how you’re doing it, and why. I’ve learned that when I’ve strayed from what it is I that I know to be true for myself I either won’t succeed or I won’t feel good at what it is I’m doing. Don’t compromise what you know to fit an image or a pre-formed mold. I, like most, have had a lot of impactful life moments and lessons. I learned to look at the experiences (work and life) and to honor each one of them so that I can be of better service and my truest self to others. Plus, the right people will connect with you when they trust that how you are is who you are.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I love that you’re asking about my story because some people think that where you’ve been isn’t of current value when it comes to your brand- and it absolutely matters.

I graduated college as a Special Education teacher and taught for a handful of years. I adored my students but found a pull to a different career. The skills and strengths I utilized lead me to a career in marketing for large hospitality/technology firms. Marketing was and still is a love and strength of mine.

Through many moves and then becoming a mom of two boys, a life moment shifted my work and had me home with a child that was unwell. During that duration, I had an immense feeling that my home needed to be a place to heal and yet I felt how chaotic it made me feel. It was the first time that I truly connected with the importance of being intentional with life at home. I noticed how simple acts of decluttering, restyling, or adding something meaningful made be feel better during a challenging time.

Soon after that duration (and a healthy child) in 2011 I decided that my gift to give others was my lesson and true knowing of how much our environment impacts how we feel. I began to organize and decorate for others, which quickly took off.

The business of Julie Montgomery Interiors has ebbed and flowed over the years and I’m proud to be serving others in a way that’s truly genuine to me. My tag line is ‘designing interiors for better living” because being intentional in how we live in our spaces is just more sustainable. For that reason, I offer flexible services in order to have a greater reach and impact more people .

This year marked another beginning following another unplanned but necessary pause and then the pandemic. During this duration I journaled daily and what came from that was my desire to build a community that elevated entrepreneurs, creatives, community heroes, and more by telling their stories and allowing them to share their passions. The mission is to create a network where entrepreneurs have a platform where consumers can be inspired, learn, engage, and connect. Our motto is that we ThriveWell by Design (with intention) at home, at work, with family, and in wellness – better together.

I’m a multi-passionate person, an entrepreneur, and a connector and my brand story relays the importance of serving others with your gifts and your stories.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Just one of the many beautiful aspects of Atlanta is nature in abundance. The river walks that are minutes away is such a great way to start the day with a stroll. Though I’m not a ‘foodie’ I do love patio dining on pretty day and lunch outside is perfect. Farmers markets are not hard to find in our area and are a great way to discover local restaurants, products, and more. Vinings added to the market locations in our area and I love going there. Finally, seeing a show at The Fox Theater or listening to music in the park at the Botanical Gardens or at Chastain Park is a treat.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, my husband, Peter. I could not have left the corporate world in marketing and turned to being a business owner with all the rollercoaster moments that comes with the territory if it weren’t for the support of him. My two boys have shown me perseverance and how resilient we all really are.

Second, I’ve always surrounded myself with people that are on a similar entrepreneurial mission. I’m grateful for the women in my networks that show up for one another and are there to elevate and support.

Thirdly, to my growing group of entrepreneur contributors on the new lifestyle-community site, ThriveWell by Design, for showing up for me by sharing their expertise, authentic voices…in support of this growing platform. We have to help one another to succeed!

Website: https://www.juliemontgomeryinteriors.com/ and https://thrivewellbydesign.com/

Instagram: @juliedmontgomeryinteriors and @thrivewellbydesign

Linkedin: Julie Montgomery Interiors

Facebook: Julie Montgomery Interiors and ThriveWell by Design

Image Credits
First image of sitting room w/ two paintings behind two chairs – Photographer Marc Mauldin Other interior spaces shown: Photographer: Christina Wedge

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