April Nelson
April Nelson is a dynamic design professional and sales leader with more than a decade of experience in interior design, management, and customer-focused solutions. Currently serving as the National Design Manager at Sun Mountain Custom Doors, she has built a reputation as an energetic leader, trainer, and mentor who consistently delivers top results in sales and design. Throughout her career, April has been recognized as a multi-million-dollar sales writer, national sales award winner, and engaging speaker, leading design presentations, seminars, and training sessions across the country.
Her career path includes impactful roles at La-Z-Boy, where she ranked among the top ten in sales and design leadership for over eight years, and Bassett Furniture Industries, where she managed showrooms and led design teams in both Colorado and Las Vegas. April has also run her own business, *Designs by April*, providing residential, commercial, and office design services, and previously co-owned CKD Construction as COO and contractor. Her design expertise has been showcased on local Arizona television, offering design tips and inspiration to a broader audience.
April holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from The Art Institutes and combines her formal education with years of hands-on leadership and creativity. Whether collaborating with architects, contractors, and homeowners on custom designs or managing high-profile sales projects, she is passionate about bringing client visions to life while maintaining a strong focus on service and innovation. April’s career reflects her belief in leadership through collaboration, mentoring, and the drive to always elevate design and customer experience.
• The Art Institutes- B.A.
• None anymore
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work and the strong foundation I built at The Art Institutes, where I honed my design skills and grew them through my experiences with La-Z-Boy, Bassett Furniture, and now as a National Designer for Sun Mountain Custom Doors.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that I can do anything I set my mind to, and by setting clear goals, I can see my success unfold right before my eyes.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay committed, stay the course, and trust that you’ll clear your own path along the way, and Never give up!
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is being able to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained over the years, while continuing to create designs I’m proud of—especially with over 10 showrooms showcasing some of my work for customers to enjoy.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are maintaining a strong work-life balance—working hard to achieve success while also prioritizing family and taking time to care for and invest in myself.