Top off old-world classics with a twist of contemporary Hollywood glamour and you’ve got what Caitlyn Ashlea Designs is bringing to Santa Maria—Victorian-era elegance combined with the bold, bright colors and dynamic patterns of the modern world.
“It’s safe to go with tradition because you know it’s going to be comfortable, but [also] kind of giving it that push,” owner Caitlyn Ashlea Sanders said of her style. “I like things to look fancy and flashy, but in a tasteful manner … I am very budget conscious and want everyone to feel like their home or event looks like a ‘million bucks.’”
Inspired by award winning Los Angeles-based designer Mary McDonald of Bravo TV fame—her portfolio includes an overhaul of the Luxe Hotel in Bel Air and her own fabric and trim collection—Sanders opened her shop at the Santa Maria Inn two months ago.
Caitlynn Ashlea Designs specializes in interior design and event design and already has seven clients, all of whom were referred through word of mouth.
“I could help you redecorate your home, and I can help you design your wedding,” Sanders said.
Just one year out of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandizing in Los Angeles, Sanders decided to try things her way using McDonald as an example of what can be achieved. Sanders described McDonald as a strong, independent woman who’s become extremely successful in her industry.
Although she’s a recent graduate, Sanders said she has about three years of experience with internships under LA designers and most recently worked for a design company in San Luis Obispo. She said she learned a lot from the people she worked for, but was ready to move into something a little more independent. Plus, an artist’s vision is unique.
“I just feel like when it comes to design, it’s so personal, and you’re the only one who can implement the design you see in your head,” Sanders said.
With a little “push and encouragement” from the owners of the Santa Maria Inn—family friends—Sanders moved toward entrepreneurship. They had a shop opening and thought it might be a good fit to have a design company set up in the space.
“I was completely confident in everything until I signed my lease and got my business license,” Sanders said.
It was a huge, nerve-wracking step, but now that she’s settled into her shop and has clients lined up, she’s feeling a surge of assurance.
The entrepreneurial confidence Sanders has stems from her family’s history. She was born and raised in Orcutt with a litany of Radco Products as her guide. Her grandfather, George Radford, started Radco, and each member of the family specialized in his or her own branch of products. Although the business has since been sold, the spirit hasn’t left her.
“I was raised in a family of small business owners,” Sanders said. “I just feel like I was always inspired to have my own.”
Interested in Sanders’ artistic interiors? Visit caitlynashleadesigns.com or check out the businesses Facebook page.
Managing Editor Camillia Lanham wrote this week’s Biz Spotlight. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, email, or mail.
This article appears in Aug 14-21, 2014.