It’s been 10 years since I started my company, New Leaf Decor. Providing home staging & interior decorating services to Barrie and surrounding areas.

Back in 2009, I was employed by Honda of Canada Mfg and the company offered a buy out package to all associates due to the economic downturn. With the encouragement from my husband, I accepted the buy out and turned over a new leaf. (see what I did there? haha)

I have never worked at something so hard in my life as I did this business. I learned so many things about myself and what it takes to run a successful business. There were many moments of “OMG what have I done?” to “OMG I love what I do and Im killing it!”

Over the years I have met some amazing people and seen some amazing homes. I have been in million dollar mansions as well as tiny trailer homes. Every market has its competition! I have witnessed full on hoarding, (Im talking pathways through 3’ of stuff!) bar fridges for nightstands, (kinda genius actually) playground spinner cemented in a kitchen transformed into a kitchen table, (no words) a hot tub in the kitchen (I wondered why it felt so humid in the house) and “deer in the forest wallpaper” on all walls of the master ensuite so the client could feel like they were peeing in the forest (her words). What I have realized is, we are all unique as human beings and that’s what makes us so interesting. Our homes are our sanctuary, our space to feel safe and warm and comfortable. The way we decide to decorate or fill our spaces is nobody business, we surround ourselves with things that make us and our families happy and functional. I get it…I love my home. So when I come in your home and have to tell you to paint over that giant wall mural of the farm in your dining room, take down those custom funeral parlour drapes that cost thousands back in 1982, and suggest that someone babysit the pet snakes (yes, the plural was intended!) while you sell the house, I say it with love and understanding. I too, would have to make many changes if I were to sell my own house.

I feel so very honoured to be entrusted and sent into peoples homes, into their most personal spaces to assist them with the often very emotional process of preparing to sell. I hope to continue for many years to come.

As I reflect back, I feel damn proud that I started and successfully built a business in a recession! What better way to celebrate than with a delicious cupcake?

Cheers!

Simone