Today we welcome Emily Campbell, principal designer of Emily Jean Interior Design based in Portland, Oregon. In this episode, Emily shares her fresh perspective on the business of design as a student and entrepreneur. We discuss the pivotal moment that prompted her transition from fashion to interiors, her experience of balancing design school with launching a business, and how she’s building a foundation for long-term success by combining technical skills with real-world networking. Emily also shares how her entrepreneurial spirit, fearlessness, and commitment to community are shaping her journey.
Show Highlights:
- Emily shares her creative roots in fashion and how her design interests evolved toward interiors after building and renovating her own home
- She explains why she chose to return to school to learn the technical side of design, despite already having a strong foundation in textiles, color theory, and branding
- Emily discusses the importance of choosing a program that focuses not just on skills, but also on networking and building real-world relationships
- She talks about the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in her family and how it's influenced her desire to start her own business
- Emily opens up about the role of mentorship in her career development and how working alongside seasoned designers is helping her learn faster and more confidently
- She reflects on the transferable skills she gained from fashion trend forecasting, like overcoming shyness, building confidence, and approaching people fearlessly
- Emily emphasizes the importance of getting out of the classroom to network, visit showrooms, and engage with the design community early and often
- She shares advice for students in design programs: ask questions, stay curious, and embrace the learning process
- Emily offers her personal definition of success: focusing on the process of creating something meaningful rather than the outcome
Notable Quotes:
- “Hold on to a beginner’s mind and never let yourself feel like you know it all.”
- “It’s okay to fail. Redefine what failure means to you.”
- “Just because you can see the vision doesn’t mean the client can—you have to be able to show them.”
- “The classroom and showrooms are where you should be asking the questions.”
Supporting Resources:
Emily Jean Interior Design Website
Follow Emily on Instagram
Sponsor Links:
Design Manager — Project management, accounting, and purchasing built for interior designers
Hooker Furnishings — Versatile furniture, décor, and designer support
Daniel House Club — Sourcing from over 150 vendors in one place with trade pricing and concierge service
