We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Edmonston and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chelsea, what do you attribute your success to?
I find that true success begins and ends with a happy client. In order to ensure their satisfaction, it’s important to listen to their goals and tailor each design experience to the individual client. My objective is to elevate the home’s architecture, while creating timeless outdoor experiences through efficient space planning and sophisticated materials.
What should our readers know about your business?
As a small business owner, I’ve learned that emotions can coexist on this journey. It can be exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. However, I’ve fine-tuned what’s most important to me and continue to honor that. Optimal customer service and elevated design work are my two main priorities for each project. Setting and managing clear expectations with the client and/or broader team (architect, builder, interior designer, etc.) from the onset of a project is crucial. Also, effective communication, as well as being honest about delays or project challenges sets the tone for transparency. Honesty makes for a smooth design process and a satisfied client. I’ve been blessed with incredible clients that have made this journey wonderful and rewarding. At the same time, I’ve learned how to find my voice and stand firm to my values. Each day is an opportunity for personal and business growth.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First, I’d show her around Newport Beach for a few days because there’s so much to do and see here! We’d take a Pilates reformer class at Fit and a spin class at Moxi3 (on separate days of course!). Two of my favorite workouts and studios. After a rewarding workout, we’d treat ourselves to oatmeal blueberry pancakes at Haute Cakes Caffe. A personal favorite since they opened their doors in 1990. We’d pop in boutique shops, such as Red Balloon, Juxtaposition and Slow Goods before making our way to Lido Village. Not only are there endless stores (Jenni Kayne, Sugar Paper and Shoppe Amber Interiors) and restaurants (Bear Flag, Rye Goods and Arc Butcher and Baker), but the bay front scenery is also peaceful and breathtaking. Balboa Island is also a must! Blu Canoe is one of my favorite shops on the Island with endless unique home goods. After shopping, we’d pick up a sweet treat from Dad’s Donut Shop & Bakery – either a frozen banana or a famous hippo cookie. From there, we’d stroll around the Island and admire the beautiful architecture, then take the Ferry to the beach and ride bikes along the boardwalk. Before ending our Newport adventure, we’d journey to Laguna Beach to hike Dartmoor, peruse the shops, catch a sunset and grab dinner at Ahba. From there, we would head to Palm Desert for a few days to rest in the desert sun or to Santa Barbara and savor the awe-inspiring landscape. Both spots have endless opportunities to explore, enjoy nature and make lifelong memories.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am eternally grateful for the unconditional support from my family, close friends and people within the industry, including those I knew prior to venturing on my own and those I have been honored to meet since. I was fearful that being a boutique firm would feel isolating, however, I have developed a network of people I can reach out to at all times for guidance and support. It has truly made all the difference. I am so thankful for each person that has encouraged me along the way!
Website: https://chelseacorinnestudio.com/
Instagram: @chelseacorinnestudio
Image Credits
The photo of the BBQ and the photo of the pool with the fire pit should be credited as ‘5th & Sand / Jessica Bodas Photography’. I took the other photos.