The Design Center

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with luxury designer and entrepreneur Traci Connell to explore her journey from teaching to building a successful interior design career.

Traci shares how community involvement, including her work with Kips Bay and Dwell with Dignity, has shaped her career and connected her with opportunities beyond the design studio. She also discusses her transition into business mentoring and the lessons she has learned through coaching other designers.

For aspiring designers, Traci offers valuable advice on the business side of the industry—from creating strong systems and processes to staying teachable and seeking hands-on experience. She encourages students to be proactive, patient, and willing to learn from established firms before venturing out on their own.

This conversation reminds us that a successful design career is built not only on creativity, but also on experience, relationships, business knowledge, and a willingness to keep learning.

Read more about Traci and her designs on her website, https://traciconnellinteriors.com.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Gaylynn McBrayer, founder of La Montage Art, to discuss her journey from a career in sales to launching her own successful art gallery at age 40.

Gaylynn shares the challenges and opportunities of building her business from the ground up, including starting out of her husband's office and landing an important early partnership with Pandemonium. She emphasizes the importance of relationships, ethical business practices, supporting local artists, and building a strong team.

For aspiring designers and creative professionals, Gaylynn also shares why original art can be such an important part of interior design. Rather than simply filling a wall, she encourages designers to help clients find artwork that feels personal and meaningful—creating spaces that are truly unique.

Throughout the conversation, Gaylynn highlights the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for emerging professionals, offering students valuable insight into building a career, a business, and lasting relationships within the design community.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Susan Semmelmann, founder of Semmelmann Interiors, to explore her unconventional journey from teaching and working as a flight attendant to building a successful career in luxury interior design.

Susan shares how she quickly established herself in the industry, designing more than $500 million in homes, while emphasizing that her greatest measure of success goes beyond business. Inspired by her husband's battle with bone cancer, Susan has made it her mission to use design as a force for good through her foundation, including furnishing homes for families in need.

For aspiring designers, Susan offers advice on navigating an evolving industry: embrace technology, develop strong relational skills, and, most importantly, stay true to your own message and what makes your perspective unique.

This conversation is a reminder that a successful design career isn't just about creating beautiful spaces—it's about discovering your purpose and using your skills to make a meaningful impact.

Check out Susan's website, https://www.semmelmanninteriors.com, for more of her inspiration.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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On this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with acclaimed interior designer and entrepreneur Ruthie Staalsen, founder of Ruthie Staalsen Interiors. Ruthie shares her remarkable journey from growing up in South Africa to building an internationally recognized design business rooted in creativity, culture, and connection.

Drawing inspiration from her travels and exposure to diverse cultures, Ruthie explains how global experiences have shaped her distinctive design perspective and helped her create spaces that feel both personal and timeless. She encourages aspiring designers to look beyond aesthetics and develop a strong business foundation, emphasizing that success in the design industry requires both creativity and entrepreneurial skills.

Ruthie offers practical advice for students entering the profession, including the importance of building a strong social media presence, attending industry events such as High Point and Dallas Market, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow. She also discusses the power of networking, mentorship, and fostering meaningful relationships within the design community.

Throughout the conversation, Ruthie highlights the value of incorporating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces into projects to create truly personalized spaces. She also shares how maintaining an active online presence can help designers attract clients, showcase their work, and stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Ashton Sams, an accomplished kitchen and bath designer with more than 14 years of industry experience. Ashton shares her career journey, offering valuable insights into how flexibility, persistence, and a willingness to learn can open doors in the world of design.

Beginning with an unpaid internship in the hospitality industry, Ashton explains how each opportunity helped shape her professional path and ultimately led her to discover a passion for cabinetry, restoration, and kitchen and bath design. She discusses the importance of embracing change and remaining adaptable as careers evolve, especially in a dynamic industry where technology and client expectations are constantly shifting.

Throughout the conversation, Ashton highlights the technical skills that have contributed to her success, including proficiency in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and 2020 Design. She emphasizes that developing a strong technical foundation can give emerging designers a competitive edge and create opportunities across multiple areas of the industry.

Ashton also shares her experience working in a showroom environment at ProSource, where she has achieved more than $1 million in sales in multiple years. She discusses the unique advantages of showroom design, including direct client interaction, product expertise, and the ability to combine creativity with business acumen.

For students and young professionals, Ashton offers practical advice on building lasting professional relationships, maintaining industry connections, prioritizing work-life balance, and exploring different career paths to discover where their talents and passions align best.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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What an incredible journey it's been!

In the Season One finale of Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee reflects on the incredible journey of launching the podcast and the inspiration she's gained from hearing the personal career stories of industry professionals. She encourages listeners to revisit past episodes for valuable insights from accomplished designers and reminds them that every career path is unique.

Christine also celebrates the podcast's growing reach, with nearly 1,000 downloads across nine countries in just five months, and thanks listeners for their support. Looking ahead, she offers a preview of an exciting Season Two featuring expert guests in design, cabinetry, color, and branding, along with new resources to help students transition into the design profession. Until then, listeners can look forward to exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews and content between seasons.

We're also working on an exciting new initiative designed to help bridge the gap between design school and your first job in the industry, so stay tuned for that announcement.

And if you can't wait until Season Two launches, neither can we! Keep an eye on our channels for behind-the-scenes interviews and exclusive conversations with innovative brands shaping the future of design, sure to inspire your next project.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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On this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes designer Kristi Hopper for a conversation about creativity, career reinvention, and building a successful design business.

Kristi shares how her path into interior design was not a straight line. After working in corporate management and facing an unexpected career change, she reconnected with her passion for design and founded Kristi Hopper Designs. That decision led to the creation of a full-service interior design firm that has served clients across North Texas for more than two decades.

Throughout the episode, Kristi emphasizes that great design is deeply personal. Rather than focusing on a single signature style, she explains the importance of listening to clients, understanding how they live, and creating spaces that support connection, comfort, and everyday life. This philosophy has become the foundation of her work in residential and commercial design.

Kristi also discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, including learning to value her work, balancing creativity with profitability, and building a team that allows her to focus on her strengths. Her experience offers an honest look at the challenges and rewards of running a design firm.

For students interested in interior design, product development, or creative entrepreneurship, this episode is both inspiring and practical. Kristi's story demonstrates that successful design careers are built through curiosity, resilience, relationship-building, and a commitment to creating spaces that truly improve people's lives.

Read more about Kristi on her website https://www.kristihopper.com

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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What does it take to turn creativity into a successful career? On this episode of Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Scottie Collins, a creative and product development expert with more than 20 years of experience in the fashion and home industries.

Scottie shares how his journey began at the University of North Texas, where he started weaving placemats and table runners—an experience that sparked a career filled with innovation, product development, and collaborations with well-known brands such as Kate Spade and Jack Spade. From creating samples to developing products for major retailers, Scottie reflects on the opportunities that helped shape his path.

Throughout the conversation, Scottie emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer and the purpose behind every product. He explains why successful design goes beyond aesthetics and requires a deep understanding of how people live, use, and connect with the products they bring into their homes.

For students and emerging professionals, Scottie offers practical advice on building a career in the design industry. He highlights the value of networking, attending industry events, seeking mentorship, and remaining curious throughout every stage of your professional journey. Continuous learning, he says, is one of the most important tools for long-term success.

The episode also explores Scottie's latest venture, Ellora Casa, a brand centered on timeless design and the concept of "future heritage." His vision is to create beautiful, functional products that stand the test of time—pieces designed to be used, cherished, and passed down for generations.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Sammi Day, founder of Day Drapery, to discuss her unexpected path from accounting aspirations to becoming a respected leader in the custom drapery industry.

With more than 15 years of experience, Sammi shares how Day Drapery has become a trusted behind-the-scenes partner for interior designers, specializing in high-end custom window treatments. She explains the level of precision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail required to execute luxury drapery projects successfully — from fabric selection and hardware decisions to measurements, installation, and motorization options.

Sammi also gives listeners an inside look at the business side of running a custom workroom, including the time-intensive quoting process and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with designers. She emphasizes that professionalism, communication, and reliability are essential in an industry built heavily on referrals and repeat partnerships.

Throughout the conversation, Sammi reflects on the growth of her company, the increasing demand for motorized treatments, and the value of networking within the design community. Her insights offer students and emerging designers a realistic look at the collaboration, technical knowledge, and trust required to bring beautiful interiors to life.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, Christine Gee sits down with Kim Bailey, founder of Design Lifestyles and the Heritage School of Interior Design, to discuss her journey and her unique approach to design education.

Kim shares how she transitioned from a business administration background into a successful career in interior design, ultimately building both a thriving design firm and a school dedicated to preparing the next generation of designers. She challenges the traditional education model, emphasizing that real-world experience is essential — and that many programs fall short by lacking instructors with true industry backgrounds.

At the Heritage School, Kim has created a hands-on learning environment, offering a 12-week foundational program and an advanced master's program. Students gain practical experience through industry visits, workshops, and direct exposure to how the design business actually works.

Throughout the conversation, Kim stresses the importance of networking, gaining applicable skills, and getting involved in the industry early. She also highlights the accessibility of her program, which attracts both career changers and recent graduates, along with its strong job placement success.

This episode is a must-listen for students and aspiring designers looking for a more practical, experience-driven path into the design industry — and a reminder that success comes from doing, learning, and building real connections along the way.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, Christine Gee sits down with Savannah Lindeau, a representative for the luxury appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite, part of LG Electronics.

Savannah shares her unique journey from growing up on a cattle ranch in Nebraska to building a career in the design and appliance industry. She reflects on how her early experiences shaped her strong work ethic, emphasizing the importance of grit, integrity, and a willingness to continuously learn and grow.

Her path took a pivotal turn when she began working in Ferguson showrooms, where she discovered her passion for appliances and the role they play in design. Today, she represents SKS, a rapidly growing luxury appliance brand that has expanded its product line significantly in recent years.

Savannah also highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and staying curious throughout your career. She shares her commitment to personal and professional development, including pursuing her Executive MBA at Southern Methodist University.

This episode is full of encouragement for students and emerging designers — a reminder that career paths aren't always linear, and that success often comes from embracing opportunities, building relationships, and continuing to invest in yourself.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Michael Bauer, a respected veteran of the interior design industry with decades of experience supporting designers and the trade community.

Michael shares highlights from his impressive career, including his time as Vice President of Business Development at the Dallas Market Center and his current role as Director of Trade Relations at Feizy Rugs. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on the importance of building strong relationships within the design industry and supporting professionals at every stage of their careers.

Michael has received numerous industry honors, including the Kathy Hammond Industry Partner Award and the American Society of Interior Designers Dallas–Fort Worth President's Award, recognizing his commitment to the design community.

A passionate advocate for the next generation of designers, Michael encourages students to actively participate in industry events, network with professionals, and follow their passions as they begin their careers. He also shares his involvement in the Designers for Dogs initiative, which supports fostering and adoption efforts and highlights how the design community can come together to support meaningful causes.

This episode offers valuable insight and encouragement for students and emerging designers looking to build lasting careers while making a positive impact in the industry.

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Kristin Mitchell, a Builder Sales Representative at Ferguson with more than 30 years of experience in the kitchen and bath industry.

Kristin shares her journey from graduating from Texas A&M University to building a long, successful career at Ferguson. She discusses the importance of collaboration between designers, builders, and suppliers, and how her role helps support professionals throughout the design and construction process.

A strong advocate for industry connections, Kristin highlights the value of professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers and events like the ASID Student Symposium, where emerging designers can build relationships and learn from experienced professionals.

Kristin also shares her involvement in Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas, offering insight into how major design projects bring together talent from across the industry.

For students and emerging professionals, Kristin's advice is simple: work hard, explore different roles within the industry, and take advantage of training and networking opportunities. She also speaks about the culture at Ferguson and how its strong values and flexibility have allowed her to grow and evolve throughout her career.

Learn more about the American Society of Interior Designers or ASID online at https://tx.asid.org/

Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Andrew Risinger, Co-Owner of Kitchen, Bath, Home in Dallas, and a highly respected leader in the kitchen and bath industry.

Andrew is a Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer through the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) — and a Certified Remodeler through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

His professional excellence has earned him national recognition, including being named NKBA's 30 Under 30 and a Top 40 Innovator by Kitchen & Bath News — honors that reflect both his technical expertise and forward-thinking approach to design.

A true industry advocate, Andrew recently concluded a two-year term as President of the NKBA Texas North Plains Chapter, where he helped strengthen professional standards, mentorship, and community within the design industry. His leadership extends beyond business ownership — he is also shaping the next generation of designers as an instructor of Kitchen & Bath Design at the Heritage School of Interior Design in Dallas.

Andrew shares the philosophy behind Kitchen, Bath, Home, and how their East Dallas showroom supports and collaborates with interior designers. Together, they explore innovation in kitchen and bath spaces, the importance of certification and continuing education, and what it takes to build a meaningful, respected career in today's competitive design landscape.

Learn more about the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) at https://nkba.org

And the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) by visiting https://www.nari.org.

Learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors on her website, https://g-interiors.com

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Donna Moss, finalist on HGTV Design Star and host of Donna Decorates Dallas.

Donna shares her inspiring journey into interior design at age 50 — proving it's never too late to pivot into a creative career. Her experience on Design Star helped launch her path, but she emphasizes that lasting success requires both creativity and strong business skills.

Beyond design, Donna is deeply committed to philanthropy. She has helped raise significant funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org) and the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org), using her platform to create meaningful impact.

She also discusses the St. Jude Showplace Homes project, in partnership with Beckett Graham (https://beckettgraham.com) and other builders, which has raised more than $1 million to support St. Jude's mission. In collaboration with the Heritage School of Interior Design (https://www.heritageschoolofdallas.com), Donna mentored students involved in the project — giving them real-world experience while demonstrating how design can serve a greater purpose.

To check out Donna's book Best of Show, visit Amazon for your copy!

Follow Donna's journey on Instagram: @donnamossdesign or @beckettgrahamhomes

Learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors on her website, https://g-interiors.com/

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In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee of G-Interiors Studio & Design Center welcomes Ginger Hartford, founder of EurDesign Studio and a true master of marketing within the global art and design industry.

Ginger most recently served as Head of Design for Dallas Market Center, where she became a trusted champion of luxury media, top designers, and the Dallas design community as a whole. In that role, she helped elevate industry voices, foster meaningful connections, and shape how design brands show up on both national and global stages.

Now stepping into an exciting new chapter, Ginger serves as Global Vice President of Marketing, Brand, and Creative for Art Brand Studios, a legacy fine art agency with renowned partnerships including Martha Stewart, Disney, and Art Basel. Her work continues to bridge art, design, and storytelling at the highest level.

Fresh from Paris, where she attended Maison & Objet, Ginger brings a truly global point of view to the conversation. Together, Christine and Ginger explore career opportunities in interior design and product development, the value of industry events, and how independent designers can position themselves for long-term success. They also discuss mentorship, networking, personal growth, and the importance of building an authentic brand in a competitive, ever-evolving industry.

Listeners are invited to follow Ginger's incredible journey through art, design, and travel on Instagram @eurdesign_studio.

Please join us in welcoming Ginger Hartford to The Design Center: Student Edition—an episode packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world guidance for the next generation of designers.

Learn more about G-Interiors Studio & Design Center online at https://g-interiors.com/

In this podcast, Christine Gee—CEO and founder of G-Interiors Studio & Design Center—opens the door to the real world of interior design and the many paths within it.

With 18 years of experience in both residential and commercial design, Christine brings more than expertise—she brings a passion for mentorship. Inspired by her love of teaching and her experience speaking at the Dallas ASID student symposium, she created this podcast to support aspiring designers at every stage, from high school students to career changers.

Each episode features conversations with design professionals, educators, industry partners, builders, marketers, and product experts. Listeners will gain honest insight into what it's really like to run a design business, navigate the industry, and build a meaningful career in design.

From market leaders in High Point, Atlanta, Dallas, and Las Vegas to organizations like ASID, NKBA, and NARI, Christine connects listeners with voices shaping the future of design.

Whether you're exploring interior design for the first time or looking for guidance on your next step, this podcast is your guide to the industry—offering practical advice, real stories, and a supportive community to help you grow.

Learn more about us on our website, https://g-interiors.com.