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

Hi Tamara, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

I completed my design degree during the recession. I was living in Miami, FL at the time where the real estate and development industry was hit pretty hard so there weren’t many employment opportunities available. I started my business at that time because I was eager to begin my interior design career, so I created my own opportunity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

What sets me apart as an interior designer is that my portfolio is diverse and multi-faceted. I’ve work on residential, commercial, resort, and cruise ship design projects. I design spaces that are uniquely tailored to my clients based on their personality, style, and needs. I never try to influence my client’s style based on my own personal style.  I love the challenge of designing spaces that are different from my own personal design aesthetic.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was the lack of mentorship from more seasoned designers when I was starting out. I overcame that by being diligent about learning everything I possibly could on my own, from running a business to working with contractors and vendors. There was a lot of trial and error but with each project, I adapted and improved my process, becoming a better designer and business owner. Along the way, I’ve learned to trust myself and not compare myself to anyone else because my journey is different.

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.

My lifestyle is all about self-care, leisure, and being in environments that inspire and rejuvenate. Most of my family and friends live in large bustling cities so, in addition to showing them a good time, I also want them to return home feeling relaxed and refreshed.

I live in the Tampa Bay area which has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The beach has always been a place of inspiration and solace for me so spending a day at the beach is always going to be on the agenda. A spa day with champagne, some sightseeing and lunch along one of the Bay Area’s many waterfront venues, and a visit to St. Pete to take in some art and nightlife.

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?

Finding mentors in this industry has been very challenging for me. Unfortunately, many established designers don’t like to share information, advice, and resources in a way that would benefit younger and less experienced designers.

I am eternally grateful to my friends and family who have been paramount to my success. They were the first to believe in me, trust me, and hire me. To this day most of my business comes from friends and family, and the clients they refer to me. My husband, Errol, and daughter, Tayvia have been my biggest supporters and sources of inspiration. They keep me going.

Website: www.tarcherdesign.com

Instagram: @t.archerdesign

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarajarcher/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.