Hello again blog readers! I am back from a much needed holiday escape packed full with green beans and mashed potatoes. Starting this Cyber Monday off with another fabulous business profile!
Hilary stands out among her peers with her smart eye for design. She is bringing eight years of interior design experience into the world of weddings with chic, fresh stylish events. I have attended several of her events both as a guest and fellow industry partner and leave each time so impressed. She is so easy to talk to and bubbling with creative ideas. If you are looking for a well designed event, Hilary is your gal! Click here to peek at her website and make sure to follow her blog! ( fabulous drink recipes including her latest Pear Rosemary Martini!)
Who are you? What do you do? How long have you been doing this?
I am the owner of Estera Events, which provides full service design and styling, production and coordination for Weddings, Social and Corporate events. I launched Estera in March of 2010. Before that, I was an Interior Designer at a high-end boutique firm for 8 years and Floral Designer for 1 year.
Walk us through one of your typical work days. Your 9am-5pm .
My day normally starts around 7 or 8am, at which point I start responding to emails or post to my blog (if I didn’t prepare it the night before). These days, it is rare for me to have a full day in the office, as I’m usually meeting with clients and vendors, at the flower market or networking. I don’t often wrap things up until 9 or 10pm, depending on whether I’m catching up on more correspondence or at an industry event
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Who, if anyone encouraged you to pursue your dream?
My parents did not object when I ‘told’ them I was moving to Chicago during college to study design and they have always been behind every decision I’ve made. My husband is also a great supporter, particularly during my transition from interiors to floral design to launching Estera Events. I would have to say though, the most influential person in my life was my grandmother Vena, a true inspiration. She was raised during the depression, but some how found a way to go to college, become one of the most treasured teachers in the community and was an incredibly gracious person to all who knew her. Not to mention, she had great style! I was fortunate to travel with her and my grandfather when I was quite young and as a result was introduced to fine hotels, urban environments (I was raised on a farm), learned how to handle myself in a business environment and treat everyone with respect.
Enjoy the photos from a bridal shower Hilary designed from top to bottom. Endless thoughtful details, coordinated colors and unique party ideas.
Was there a moment when you know you were going to begin your own small business? Tell us about it.
After I left the Interiors world, I was working as a floral designer and wanted more. I felt like I had so much to offer in terms of my design skills, planning and project management background and business sense. I also finally felt I found my passion in event design and was confident in my abilities. Then I took a leap of faith and hoped it would work out!
Where do you glean your inspiration?
Everywhere! I read a variety of design, food, travel and wedding magazines (still love print!). Oh, and I love to visit great hotels, swanky cocktail lounges and well designed restaurants. I also troll blogs for ideas and am often inspired by nature. On that note, I’m rejuvenated by going back home to Missouri, where my parents have a Bed & Breakfast and still run the family farm (www.innatcloverhill.com).
Besides great design, lovely florals and organization… what does your heart ache for?
Travel! Great wine, good friends and more time:)
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
As of December 1, Estera Events will be moving to a new studio! I’m sharing a space with the lovely Sarah Drake Design, which will allow me to offer more floral design and event production services to my clients. Call me to schedule a visit!
Website: www.esteraevents.com
Blog: www.esteraevents.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/esteraevents
Twitter:@esteraevents
Office Location:
3717 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Suite 239A , Chicago
Know someone perfect for this blog series? Drop me a line @simplyphoto on Twitter!
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