Before launching Simplified Bee®, I first put my organizational and design skills to work in the high tech industry for over eight years directing marketing efforts including events, press and lead generation. After the birth of my first child, I hung up my corporate hat and switched gears as a stay-at-home mom. Shortly after, I followed my passion for home decorating and studied interior design.

As a busy mother of young ones, I understand the desire for a home to be functional, yet beautiful. I saw a need for “functional” interior design and knew homes could be orderly without sacrificing style. As a result I launched Simplified Bee® in January 2009 offering residential style-savvy organization and design services in the San Francisco Bay Area. I believe surrounding yourself in beautiful, organized homes reduces stress, makes you happier and inspires healthier living.

In May of 2009, after a client pushed me to do so, I started the Simplified Bee® Blog. With limited marketing funds, the blog was originally a placeholder for a website that would be developed later that year. To my surprise, the little blog grew and I grew to love writing about interiors, organizing and entertaining. “Meeting” new blogger friends has also been a wonderful element in starting the blog.

Some of my favorite projects are helping busy families with children. Currently, I am working on designing a playroom for a family with three little ones. It is a fun space to design because of the challenge to be functional first and foremost, while still be style-savvy and budget friendly.

Nature, textiles and color are typical inspiration points for me in design. Currently I am obsessed with the block-print textiles from designers like John Robshaw. I also prefer designs that are approachable, wabi-sabi and artfully blend old and new. Eco-friendly design is also important to me. I love upcycling furniture found at a yard sale or flee market. I am not a fan of interiors that are matchy-matchy and look a page out of a furniture catalog.

Attending The Design Bloggers Conference is a wonderful opportunity to learn from some of the best in the design blog community. I’m also very excited to meet the talented conference speakers and attendees - many of whom are fellow bloggers I have followed for years!