Mount Pleasant interior designer wins national award | Features

Molten said the retail customers differ from interior design clients because they are more comfortable picking out their own items and are likely updating a few pieces instead of their whole home. 

The retail shop offers a free concierge service where stylists help customers shop either virtually or in person. 

The retail component of the business started on day one, Molten said.

She worked in pharmaceutical sales for over a decade after college. During her career, she moved to Charleston and bought a house in West Ashley. She started decorating her cottage in her own personal style and posted updates on social media. Before she knew it, friends and family were asking her to help design their homes or pick out furnishings. 

She decided to open an online retail shop to start selling items she styled and posted on Instagram. Her intention was to keep the business online-only. 

She kept the furnishings and décor in a nearby storage unit. Customers started asking if they could see the items in person, so she set up times to meet them at the unit. Then, she started opening the storage unit regularly for a few hours two days a week. Despite the small space, customers showed up to shop her collection. 

“It would be so packed,” Molten said.

When Molten decided to quit her job and pursue interior design, she realized she was finally doing a job she loved, she said. 

“The minute I made that switch, it’s like I was doing exactly what I was meant to be doing,” Molten said. 

She said the last year has been challenging for the business after an overhaul of the entire team. But the award serves as a reminder that hard work pays off, she said. She quoted Kelly Clarkson: “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” 

Creating the presentation and application materials for the ARTS award was a three-month long process. The packet included a company introduction, merchandising, display and interior design projects, marketing and examples of positive company culture.