Brush strokes from Linda Lewis and Decorelle
Chatting over a coffee in the Gala Theatre, I smile to myself. There is a definite sparkle in the eyes of this slim and elegant looking 55-year-old lady, as she chats to me about herself and the passion she has for her work.
The two seem to be an unlikely choice but Linda Lewis definitely has the drive and determination to succeed with her new business venture Decorelle, a painting, decorating and interior design company, which she runs from her home in Fir Trees near Brancepeth, County Durham.
We chat about how she arrived at this exciting and challenging new phase in her life.
Married to a merchant seaman, Linda was lucky to have the chance to travel extensively with him during their early years of marriage.
She feels fortunate to have experienced the sights, sounds, the full spectrum of colours displayed by nature and humanity whilst visiting countries such as Japan, and South Africa.
Travelling along with Linda and her husband was her trusty sewing machine, a must for keeping her occupied whilst her husband was busy working. Time spent in bustling local markets seeking out colourful fabrics and textiles have stayed with her to provide inspiration for projects and commissions.
In her early forties, a mum working in a busy catering envionment, she decided it was time to broaden her horizons and follow her true destiny.
New College was offering a two-year City and Guild course in Creative Studies\Interior Designs Techniques, Linda applied and was accepted. She said: “It was my light bulb moment in life, from then on I have never looked back”.
Qualify from her course gave her immense satisfaction, confidence and pride in herself but it took another two years before she decided to set up in business.
Family, friends and work colleges had always benefited from her advice on interior design, paint effect and decorating – and if they wanted it help with decorative cake making and fancy dress costume design.
Her first happy client was a work colleague and the job a kitchen redesign. She was later asked to redesign and decorate the whole house.
Cake specialist
She delights in the transformations that can take place when creating a new look or design in people’s homes or work places. “Working with people is wonderful. When creating a new space an understanding of a client’s lifestyles is important.
Sometimes, I’m asked to work around existing furniture, favourite photograph’s or works of art. Other times I am presented with what I call a ‘clean palette’.
“Some clients want a complete new look and I love the challenge as I feel passionate about what I do. I am excited by every new project,” said Linda who says the important first step for any job is to be a good listener.
Networking is always very important for new businesses and Linda frequently attends meeting run by local networking groups and establishments. They provide support and referrals for her business and she makes new friends too!
All she can say now, with that twinkle in her eye is, “I may be slight in appearance, gray haired but I have all this creative and physical capability to express and share. There’s hope on the horizon for all women of my age and for anyone who want to follow their dream.”
So – keep climbing that ladder to success Linda and when whilst you are up there spread a touch if colour!
You can visit Linda’s website – www.decorelle.co.uk or email her at llewis1608@aol.com