We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
As a small business owner, the concept of work-life balance becomes blurred. There is no clear-cut “log in – log out” time. In the beginning, I used to believe that I had to handle everything myself. However, with time, I have come to realize the importance of delegating certain tasks to others. This allows me to focus on the details that truly matter in both my work and personal life. While learning to separate work and home/family life has been challenging, I can confidently say that it is achievable and has made a significant difference in my personal life. I have successfully created a balance between work and my personal life, and I genuinely enjoy it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
First and foremost, my ultimate goal is to design and create spaces for my clients that they will absolutely adore. The beauty of my approach is that I don’t adhere to a specific style, recognizing the uniqueness of each client. I take great delight in blending various styles, from layouts to finishes, fixtures to materials and textures, appliances to furniture and décor. The result is an unparalleled and timeless design that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Discovering a career that I am passionate about was the easy part. However, the journey of executing my designs isn’t always a smooth ride. The rollercoaster of ups and downs is a constant presence, but I remain focused and steadfast, consistently showing up for my clients and my work. It is this unwavering dedication that keeps the momentum going and the success ball rolling.

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.
As an outdoor enthusiast, I always make sure to indulge in the beauty of Malibu’s beaches and hiking trails. And when it’s time to refuel, I have a few favorite restaurants: For a delicious breakfast or brunch, Bru’s Wiffle is a must-visit. When lunchtime rolls around, I often find myself gravitating towards Sugarfish for some of the best sushi! And when the evening comes, there’s no place like Bestia for a memorable dinner experience. Yum!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe a great deal of my knowledge and growth to my dear friend and fellow designer, Troy Adams. Troy is an exceptionally skilled designer who has served as a valuable mentor and advisor throughout my career, and his guidance and support remain instrumental even now.

Website: www.belynstudio.com

Instagram: @belynstudio

Image Credits
Image Credits: Brian Leahy Photography / Ace Misiunas / Max Tepper

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