Her Story
About Dana
I started in environmental policy at Michigan State, tried law school, worked as a social worker with adults with developmental disabilities for four and a half years before pursuing interior design in Chicago. I taught interior design there while doing commercial work, then moved back to Michigan and founded Valia Design in 2013. My business grew through referrals only. Recently, I added a builder's license, becoming the only dual-licensed woman in interior design and building in Michigan. My inspiration came from childhood making doll houses and my dad's construction background.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being authentic, doing the right thing by clients, focusing on what's at hand rather than comparing to others, and building everything slowly through referrals and past experiences. Like the turtle, slow and steady wins the race. I've never been given anything or had help starting my business; it's all been self-driven.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The interior design industry has a place for everybody. Figure out your strength or skill set, whether it's sales, CAD drawings, fabric, furniture design, or sketching, and build on that. Not everyone needs to be client-facing; there's room for behind-the-scenes work too.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Transparency, genuineness, open communication, and authenticity are most important. I maintain open dialogue with clients, build solid long-term relationships with contractors and vendors who align with my philosophies, and surround myself with a trustworthy network. I avoid working with people I don't know and prioritize realness over anything else.
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