Meet Jolina Meechan | Interior Designer & Stager

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

Hi Jolina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always loved to design and reorganize rooms. I had never really seen it as a career option until I was deep into my Psychology Master’s program (perfect timing, right?). I seriously contemplated doing a 180 and jumping towards design, but I felt I was too deep into my schooling to hit the brakes. Jump forward 4 years and I had bought my first home with my husband. We invested in a fixer-upper and were (mostly) ready for all of its challenges. I learned SO much along the way & had an absolute blast letting my creativity flow. We were doing this while working full-time jobs, but yet I was always having to force myself to call it a night. Friends and family were eager to see our work, but I was rather shy about sharing with them. My confidence was boosted every time they would compliment the progress or friends would see our home in person. During the pandemic, I found myself looking for more creative outlets as Zoom calls began to drain me. I took on more home projects and found the joy I’d been missing. With the amazing support (and gentle nudges) from my husband, friends and family, I started sharing my work online. The business bloomed organically as more and more folks reached out for my help. I am very excited for this new adventure! My first step was creating a separate design Instagram.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In a quick summary, Jolina Designs offers home interior design packages and home staging for properties entering the market. I cater to both the current homeowner and the seller. I offer my design services completely virtually for the safety and ease for everyone! I love to see client’s realize that their space can immediately change their overall happiness with my help. Our rooms have such an impact on our moods- the colors, textures, decorations we choose- and I am so rewarded by helping my clients make these adjustments. When it comes to staging, I am beyond excited for the potential homeowners to walk in and picture themselves living in the home. I like to think they would enjoy the coffee table books and see themselves cozying up with the throw blanket on a snowy day. It was not an easy road to get to where I am today. I applied for a design job back around 2015. I’ll be honest, I never heard back from the company. I felt so defeated and took it as a sign to lay low and away from this industry. Looking back, I wish I had the self-confidence to have applied elsewhere or asked them for feedback on my application. I have had to overcome (and still do) my own fears. It takes a lot of vulnerability to connect with potential clients and be present on social media. I have to remind myself constantly that the business won’t grow if I don’t put in the effort. I find that once I push my own doubts aside, I feel the freedom to design. My favorite part of this journey has been overcoming these hurdles and seeing it grow week by week. I want the world to know that I am here to stay. I continue to learn daily and I want to share my knowledge with you in your space!

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?
When friends come to visit, I want to show them all that our beautiful state has to offer! I would share the mountains with them and go snowboarding if the conditions are right. After a full day in the snow, I love to stroll through the small towns for après ski. A personal fave is Rocky Mtn Underground in Breckenridge- try the Espress Yo’ Self and you won’t be disappointed. During autumn, I would take them on the Leadville train to see the magical aspen groves. I would take them to Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, or Maroon Bells to hike and experience our scenery. Around the holidays, we’d visit the historic Broadmoor hotel to see all of their decorations and sing along at the Golden Bee. We’d pop into some of my favorite restaurants, 503W, Dos Santos, or Streetcar 520. Lastly, I’d take them to a few breweries (because what’s Colorado without some brews?).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! This whole experience has shown me the incredible support I have, both from friends, family and from new connections. Amber Martinez, the head wedding planner for Out West Events, immediately leapt to my side when she saw my posts. Having recently started her business also, she pointed me in the direction of a business coach. I connected with Nicole of Nicole Renee Coaching, a business coach focused on supporting wedding industry related vendors, and was so thankful she was willing to take a chance on an interior designer. Nicole walked me through the ins and outs of starting, owning, and running a business. I’ve learned more from her than I could ever put into words. She held me accountable for my progress and encouraged me through any of my fears or doubts. Additionally, my husband has been my main supporter throughout my entire career journey. He always encourages and cheers me on! I’ve also been extremely lucky to have my parents, family and best friends in my corner since day 1. They’re all so excited to see me tap into my creativity and finally do what I’ve always loved. I am forever grateful to everyone for their love and support!

Website: www.jolinadesigns.com

Instagram: @jolinadesigns

Facebook: @jolinadesigns

Other: Pinterest: @jolinadesigns1

Image Credits
Bri Lee (headshot)