Ready to meet the inspiring woman behind Gilded Heights? Aubrey was kind enough to join us in a spotlight interview, so you can learn a little more about her:
What is the name of your business?
Gilded Heights
How long have you been in business?
This is my first year!
What do you do?
Gilded Heights is a source for people who are interested in taking their design sense a step further. The blog is a great resource for inspiration for DIY projects and styling tutorials. You can even have Gilded Heights propose design concepts and source lists for your own personal home for a more hands-on experience. Lastly, GH has it’s own collection of curated pieces that are featured on the blog that you can purchase for your own home.
Why did you start your business?
As a design professional myself, I found myself answering design questions for friends and family all the time. I also started getting some inquiries to work contract for a few clients in the evenings. I quickly realized I needed to take advantage of the opportunities and get a brand going. Also, I really wanted to work in a way that left me fulfilled and allowed me to focus on what inspires and drives me as a designer.
What is unique about your business?
I definitely have my own distinct taste and style. Gilded Heights is not your stereo-typical design consultant resource. I strive to produce an original look with found pieces that make your home look and feel personal and comfortable. I hope people will want to work with me because they too feel like their home should tell the story of who they are and not what they saw in a magazine.
What is the process like to work with you?
If you’re looking for personal design consultation, we’ll start by narrowing down what sort of styles you may or may not be drawn to. We’ll ask for images of your existing space, possibly some dimensions and a budget (which we can totally help with). From there, we propose a concept board with source lists and pricing for you to order at your own convenience. There’s absolutely no pressure!
Why did you decide to work with Doodle Dog?
I had heard of Doodle Dog through another friend of mine, Tracy Melton with Tracy Melton Artistry, who had a great experience with Nikki. Once I looked through her portfolio and initiated correspondence with her, I knew I could trust her with developing my brand.
What’s your favorite part of your new look?
I love that it blends a masculine tailored structure with a feminine quality in the logo. I smile every time I see it! Nikki was able to capture my style very easily through a few conversations and a mood board. I am very pleased!
What advice would you give to someone considering a rebrand or relaunch?
Your brand (website, business card, letterhead, etc.) is literally your potential clients first impression of who you are and what you do. A well designed brand will draw people in and keep them coming back for more. I really believe its the most important investment I’ll make for my company.
Tell us about your family.
I live with my husband, Kale, of almost three years and my mischievous (but painfully adorable) beagle, Oliver. We are expecting our first baby in July! Both of us are from the west coast originally (he’s from Central Coast California and I’m from Seattle) but we both consider Dallas a great fit for us. We love this city and look forward to many more years here.
What’s on your playlist?
Anything from Dave Matthews Band (it’s the PNW in me!), James Blake, The Postal Service, Birdy, M83, Disclosure and Beyonce.. because she’s amazing. I also grew up listening to Motown – a little Marvin Gaye and every now and then is good for the soul.
Where do you like to shop?
It’s always fun to shop at smaller boutiques, they’re usually my favorite. Milk&Honey, here in Dallas, is my favorite pre-weekend stop. I also love Gypsy Wagon for their amazing and unique jewelry selection. Nordstroms is usually a sure thing for me, especially now that Topshop has their own department at Nodstroms locations. Last but not least, I’m a fan of the online source Piperlime, as well.
Describe yourself and your style.
I lean towards a tailored look. I like clothes that are comfortable, flattering and a balance of masculine/feminine. Right now, I am playing with mixing textures – chunky sweaters and leather pants. I also love to layer! I think this definitely translates into my interior design style too. I like challenging myself to mix old and new items. If the piece has a back story, even better! I’m hoping my future clients also appreciate this kind of style as much as I do!
Where do you find inspiration?
My favorite way to get inspired is to travel. I love soaking in a new city. Our latest adventure was to Paris/Marrakech. Marrakech was ridiculous, I’d love to go back one day. Tulum, Mexico, is a favorite of ours too. It’s so easy to get there and such a beautiful little stretch of beach. I love the craftsmanship and attention to detail you find in the style (in both fashion and decor). It’s really awe inspiring and you can’t help but appreciate it. But, let’s face it, I can’t travel nearly as much as I like. Luckily, Dallas has a great art and sculpture museum – perfect for reflecting and taking in pretty when you’re in need of some solid inspiration!
Aubrey Butcher
Gilded Heights
214.315.9352
