Working with some of our country’s top decor brands has been one of the greatest highlights of my blogging “career” thus far. I never in my wildest dreams imagined working so closely with such talented women who have taken the Decor and Design industry to new heights with their ever-developing concepts and beautiful deigns. I have been inspired by them more and more, not just from a manufacturing point of view, but by there hard and honest work ethic and their journey as entrepreneurs.
And of course it’s super special for me when I am given credit for the hard work and love I invest into my blog and these women trust me to represent them on my platform in the best way I know how.
But the absolute best feeling has to be when I am contacted by them personally, the way I was with Louise Bradbury of Cait’s Room Interiors, who eagerly wanted to jump on board our Nursery Makeover. I mean, here I was trying to persuade all these companies to work with me and Louise, who is an interior decorator by trade asks me if she can contribute some of her beautiful products? I was bowled over, really!
I also love the fact that Louise knew all too well the vision I had for Hunter’s room from the get go. Her style, although maybe somewhat more romantic and feminine than my own, was right in line with what I imagined Hunter’s room to look like. She was so accommodating and personal in her approach, having made up the beautiful ottoman in the exact colours we needed. And need I say more about the gorgeous personalised name garland? I mean can you get more special and sentimental than that?
Let’s see what this lovely and oh-so-taleted lady has to say about her business Cait’s Room Interiors…..
1. Is this your full time job? If not, what do you do?
Yes
2. How and when was your brand born?
I discovered my passion and forte for interiors quite by chance whilst pregnant with my firstborn 17 years ago. My interior design business was borne around the same time, and my brand has evolved over the years [in between a few stints in corporate project management]; finally blossoming into my daughter’s namesake 3 years ago.
3. Was it an overnight success or did you experience many teething problems?
I guess I was one of the lucky ones who experienced success right from the get-go. Right place at the right time I think… And then just as quickly, personal tragedy struck and I let it all fall by the wayside for a couple of years…
4. What has been your greatest lesson in the industry? Any tips for people starting out?
As the years progress, it becomes more and more competitive and seriously cut-throat, with so many newcomers out to ‘conquer the industry”, sadly leaving their scrupels behind. I’ve learnt to become thick-skinned to that lot, and stay true to who I am as an individual, which is equally evident in my brand ethos.
5. As a momtrepreneur what are some challenges you face with having to balance it all – family, work and other commitments?
As a single mom for more than a decade now, it has probably been even more challenging than the ‘regular momtrepeneur’… and not having a support system in Joburg has often tested me to the limits in all aspects. But with every challenge comes growth, and an opportunity to do better. My priority has always unfailingly been my girls, even during the many years School Aftercare was a reality [that they absolutely hated *teary eyes*]. But I always made sure I was the one taking them to and from school, made sure I was at every sports meet and school play, and if I’m honest, ‘sacrificed’ any teeny bit of ‘me time’ I might have had back then for quality time with them.
6. What is the dominant theme running through your product range? And what is your signature product?
As an interior designer, I don’t have a theme as such. My online store is evolving all the time, and is made up of beautiful, quality decor and furniture pieces that I love! I’d say my signature style [more than a specific product as such] is understated elegance with a whimsical twist.
7. Who/what are your biggest influences? Or your greatest inspirations? ( I’m guessing your little ones!)
LOL, Yes you guessed it! Other than my 2 most important influencers, I just love Little Liberty for children’s spaces and Three Birds Renovations for residential interiors!
8. What has been your biggest achievement thus far as a brand?
My proudest moments have probably been being featured on the coveted international sites, Project Nursery, Project Junior and Apartment Therapy. And then of course being invited to design the gorgeous Milk Jug Cafe at Decorex Joburg this year was a fabulous highlight!
9. What are your future hopes for you business?
Whilst my passion has always been children’s interiors, I’m definitely leaning more towards evolving into a much larger residential design space. I adore what I do and thrive on creating interiors that are truly loved by their owners…It’s all very exciting, so watch this space!!
So there you have it folks, If you are in the Joburg area and are needing help with your little person’s bedroom space, go check out her Facebook page (Her website will be launching soon!!) or contact her directly at caitsroom@gmail.com. Let Louise come an work her magic!! ♥
Hi I’m Leigh! Did you enjoy reading this post? I really hope so and would love you to stick around a little longer! Please feel free to browse my blog for other articles or to keep up with all the latest news and to be the first to hear about some great competitions, come and find me me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also email me directly at leeloobaggins@hotmail.com or simply subscribe below and never worry about missing out!
