Martha Gray
Houston, Texas

Background:
"I graduated from Hardin-Simmons University.   After many years as a homemaker and mother, I worked in the oil business as a scheduler, trader, and broker of refined fuel products.  I did this for ten years before beginning my career with Decorating Den."

Personal Life:
"I have three grown children who have blessed me with three beautiful grandchildren.  I love to travel, read, go to the theater, and spend time with my family."

Reason for starting an interior decorating business:
"When the oil business crashed in the eighties, I decided it was time to own my own business.  Decorating had been a lifelong passion so when I heard about Decorating Den's concept of 'Lifestyle Decorating,' I knew this was the business for me."

What Martha likes best about running her Interiors by Decorating Den franchise:
"I love the freedom and flexibility.  I can manage the business around the personal needs and conflicts, such as I have experienced for the past several years in caring for my mother.  Even after an inactive period, one can rebuild this business with a little added marketing effort."

Most memorable moment:
"One that stands out among many is being elected to the TLC (The Leadership Council, comparable to a Board of Advisors).  The announcement came at the Century Society gala (an annual celebration dinner).  I was wearing a glitzy red dress and as the announcement was made, the band struck up "Lady in Red" and I just knew it was for me.  The next four years serving with that group provided me with a series of memorable moments and some of the best friends I'll ever have."

Business Goals:
"I plan to utilize our system and materials to develop and maintain a steady minimum base per year."

Advice to those considering entering a career in interior decorating:
"Be prepared for a lot of hard work, sometimes challenging cash flow, and personal gratification beyond description."

Sally Kinsbursky
Corona, California

Background:
"I was a Kindergarten teacher for five years, and also a licensed massage therapist.  I found Decorating Den and have been enjoying my career as a decorator for 1 years now."

Personal Life:

"I have been happily married for more than 26 years to my husband, Lee.  We have three children, Tamara, age 23, Danny, age 21, and Nicolette, age 12.  As a family, we love to do anything that is outdoorsy and water oriented.  We enjoy vacations at our lake house boating and swimming.   I also enjoy working out at the local gym and reading."

Reason for starting an interior decorating business:
"The number one reason I started my Decorating Den business was for the flexibility it offered.  I wanted to be there for all of my children's activities.  Also, I have always wanted to be my own boss."

What Sally likes best about running her Interiors by Decorating Den franchise:
"What I like most about running my own business is that I am in control. When I want to be busy, I am.  When I choose to slow down, I do."

Most memorable moment:
"There have been so many memorable moments, I simply cannot choose one.  Annual conference, needless to say, always leaves me with lasting memories."

Business Goals:
"I am going to make my Office Manager a full time position and bring on a decorator.  My long-term goal is to have two decorators to free up more time to work with my past clients and direct referrals."

Advice to those considering entering a career in interior decorating:
"First and foremost, you must be a self motivator and have the 'I can' attitude.  Being a good decorator, while important, takes a back seat to your 'can do' attitude."

Meet some more of our Decorators