Interview with Nikki Watson, FOUNDER of the biggest staging company in Texas

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In a whirlwind transformation that defies convention, a former flooring sales representative has emerged as the mastermind behind Texas’s largest home staging empire. What began as a chance encounter with a visionary Home Stager named Jason sparked a fire of inspiration within her, leading to the creation of an industry powerhouse.

Recalling her serendipitous introduction to the world of staging, the entrepreneur shared, “I met a Home Stager named Jason and I thought his business was amazing, but I had never thought of decorating as a business. I started researching more about Staging and started a company within a few days.”

With Jason’s departure from the scene, a wide-open opportunity beckoned. Undeterred by the unfamiliar terrain, she plunged headfirst into the venture, fueled by an unwavering determination to succeed. Reflecting on the pivotal moment that propelled her forward, she recounted, “Jason moved out of state, and that left a huge opportunity for me. I worked at the flooring company until the owner told me that Staging was my purpose, and he was letting me go.”

Armed with conviction and resilience, the entrepreneur embarked on her entrepreneurial odyssey, laying the foundation for what would soon become The Design Quad – a multifaceted enterprise dedicated to empowering home sellers, agents, and banks with the tools for success.

“Our company works together with these clients as their marketing team,” she explained, emphasizing the collaborative nature of her approach.

The trailblazer’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. In a testament to her unwavering commitment and excellence, she was honored with the prestigious 2022 Affiliate of the Year Award from The MetroTex Association of Realtors.

“When volunteering for an organization, you want to make sure people know how dedicated you are,” she remarked, attributing her success to genuine connections forged through shared endeavors.

Delving into her creative process, she illuminated the artistry behind transforming houses into irresistible homes. “We start with what makes a house a home,” she revealed, articulating the essence of her craft. “We create the dream by bringing in a dining room and setting the table, or bringing in artwork and pillows for the living area so the family can see themselves there.”

Despite the triumphs, the journey hasn’t been devoid of challenges. Confronting the fear of venturing into uncharted territory, she acknowledged, “Being afraid that if you start something new, will your client base take it seriously.”

Nevertheless, her understanding of buyer psychology and keen insight into market dynamics have been instrumental in driving sales and surpassing expectations. “Staging is more than placing furniture in a home or cleaning up. We have to understand how people live,” she emphasized.

Breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry, the entrepreneur has shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail for aspiring women entrepreneurs. Reflecting on her unconventional path, she remarked, “My journey was nontraditional. I didn’t take any training courses, and most of my career, I was figuring it out on my own.”

Undeterred by setbacks, she remains resolute in her pursuit of excellence, guiding clients to remarkable transformations and unprecedented success stories. From properties selling over list price to strategic marketing tailored to diverse demographics, her impact resonates far and wide.

Amidst her multifaceted role as CEO and hands-on designer, the entrepreneur navigates the delicate balance with grace and efficiency. “I rely on my team for everything,” she affirmed, highlighting the importance of collaboration and delegation.

For aspiring female entrepreneurs seeking to carve their niche in the interior design and staging realm, she offers sage advice: “Take branding very seriously. Look at everything as an opportunity, even if it comes as a challenge. Learn from all experiences and pivot when needed.”

As her journey continues to unfold, this visionary entrepreneur exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. With each endeavor, she paves the way for a new generation of trailblazers, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of entrepreneurship.

a single mom with a passion for writing. By day, Louisa works in a restaurant, but by night, she loves nothing more than putting pen to paper. Her favorite book is the Twilight series, which gives you a glimpse into her romantic and adventurous side. Louisa is a proud Italian American and fluent in Italian, which adds depth and richness to her writing. Her writing is heartfelt and genuine, and she's always looking for new ways to connect with her readers.