Meet Chérie Garcia-Kuper | Owner, Cherie Garcia Design

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chérie Garcia-Kuper and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chérie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Work-life balance has looked very different for me over the years. When I first started my business in kitchen, bath, and cabinetry design, I was in full hustle mode—working an average of 18 hours a day, seven days a week. I knew I had to earn every client, prove my value, and build a solid reputation in a very competitive industry. Fast turnaround times and consistent performance were—and still are—essential, especially since about 85% of my clientele are builders, contractors, and investors who rely on me for multiple projects each year.

Now that my business is more established, I’ve learned to be more efficient with my time and more strategic with my energy. While I still work a lot of hours—anywhere from 75 to 90 per week—how I spend those hours has evolved. A significant portion of that time is now dedicated to volunteer work, which I view as a meaningful extension of my life, not a separate obligation. I serve as an elected member of the Littleton Public Schools Board of Education and as an officer at my local Littleton Elks Lodge. Both roles allow me to give back to the community that has supported me.

I’m also a recent empty-nester, which makes balancing these roles a bit easier. My husband is incredibly supportive, and my kids—now young adults—are cheering me on. I genuinely love what I do, both in my business and in the community, so much of it doesn’t even feel like work. When I do carve out free time, I spend it with my family, my two giant Maine Coon cats, and good friends.

To me, balance isn’t always about fewer hours—it’s about fulfillment. And right now, my life feels full in the best way.

What should our readers know about your business?
I own a kitchen, bath, and construction design firm that specializes in selling cabinetry, and I can honestly say that starting it wasn’t part of a grand plan—it came from a mix of necessity, curiosity, and, ultimately, passion. After going through a divorce and navigating life as a single mom, I needed stability. I accepted a job as a receptionist at a wholesale import cabinet company, and what started as a steady paycheck quickly turned into a learning opportunity that changed my life.

Over time, I worked my way up to become the lead designer and showroom manager. That role gave me the chance to design for clients across the U.S., and one of my proudest moments was earning first place in the Parade of Homes in Idaho for the cabinetry design I did for a local home builder. The experience, mentorship, and industry knowledge I gained during those years laid the foundation for launching my own business.

When I took the leap, I had about $1,200 to my name—just enough to buy a laptop. I didn’t even have the design software yet; I purchased that after landing my first sale. My goal was to hit $1 million in sales within three years, and I reached that milestone by the end of my first year in business.

The journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve navigated challenges like tariffs, rising material costs, and fluctuating interest rates. But through it all, I’ve built a reputation as one of the top-selling cabinet vendors for the lines I carry. What sets my business apart is not just the quality of the design and products, but the relationships I build with my clients—many of whom are in the trade, including builders, contractors, and investors. They trust me with multiple projects a year, and I take that trust seriously.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s this: passion drives everything I do. From owning a business to becoming the first Latina elected to my local school board, I tell my kids and my clients that when you truly love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. And that’s exactly how I feel every single day.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d plan a week that blends local charm, great food, music, and a little adventure—basically all my favorite things!

We’d kick things off with a visit to my local Littleton Elks Lodge, where the prices and decor feel like a trip back to the early 1900s. It’s quirky, welcoming, and full of character. After that, we’d head to Cencalli Taqueria in Downtown Littleton for some of the best arrachera tacos around—authentic, flavorful, and always a hit.

To help them look sharp for the week ahead, we’d swing by Unique Hair Design in Denver, then make our way to Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a concert under the stars—nothing beats the acoustics or the scenery there.

We’d wind down that night at The Castle, my go-to dive bar. We’d cue up some random tunes on TouchTunes, sip perfectly poured drinks from my favorite bartenders, Justin and Ashley, and I’d proudly show off my personalized mug on the wall.

Since I’m currently walking the High Line Canal Trail in segments, we’d take on a few miles together, then reward ourselves with a hearty Italian meal at GeJo’s. Another must-stop is Columbine Steak House & Lounge in Denver—a no-frills, old-school spot that serves up one of the best steaks in town.

We’d definitely catch a live show at Mission Ballroom—the sound system is incredible and there’s not a bad seat in the house. I’d also take them to volunteer at the East Community Center in Littleton, which is home to some amazing local organizations doing meaningful work.
As a self-proclaimed tiki snob, I’d make sure to include a night at Adrift—a hidden gem in Denver and one of the best tiki bars I’ve ever visited, even in our land-locked state!

To round out the week, we’d pack up Rosie, our Airstream (named after Rosie the Riveter), and head out for a few days of camping at our favorite spot in Pike-San Isabel National Forest—the perfect way to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the Colorado wilderness.

It’d be a week full of good vibes, great food, and unforgettable memories—just the way I like it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s no way I could have built the life and business I have without the support of my family. My husband, Josh, has been my rock through every late night, tough decision, and leap of faith. His belief in me never wavers, even when mine does. My two beautiful kids, Trevor and Crow, have been my biggest cheerleaders. Their love, patience, and encouragement have meant everything—especially in the early days when I was pouring every ounce of myself into getting this business off the ground. My parents, Sophia and Richard, both own local businesses and have been my inspiration and motivation throughout my life. And, my Operations Director, Connie, has been instrumental in my day-to-day success.

This journey hasn’t just been mine—it’s been ours. So this shoutout is for them. I’m endlessly grateful.

Website: https://www.cheriegarciadesign.com

Instagram: @cheriegarciadesign

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheriegarciadesign