Why Your Home Still Doesn’t Look “Pinterest-Perfect” (Even With Nice Furniture) #143
Have you ever spent thousands on high-end furniture, only to move it into your living room and feel… nothing? No "wow" factor, no cozy vibe, just a room full of expensive items that don't quite talk to each other.
In the latest episode of our podcast, I sat down with Haley Tey, a graduate of our In-Demand business accelerator program and the founder of Butterhomes, her own interior styling firm in Singapore. Haley didn’t just share how to fix a "flat" room; she shared her incredible journey from a 16-year corporate career to building a thriving, soul-led business.
Watch the full interview below:
What is an Interior Stylist (and Why Do You Need One?)
One of the biggest takeaways from my chat with Haley is the distinction between an Interior Designer (ID) and an Interior Stylist.
While an ID focuses on the "hard" elements, like plumbing, electrical, and hacking walls, a stylist focuses on the soul and the vibe. Haley explains that a stylist translates your personal experiences and tastes into a cohesive home through:
Textiles and Layers: Choosing the right rugs and cushions [20:07].
Scale and Proportion: Ensuring your furniture doesn't overwhelm the space (a mistake I've made myself!) [21:04].
The "North Star" Vision: Creating a mood board that keeps the project cohesive from start to finish [22:33].
From Corporate Burnout to Creative Entrepreneur
Beyond the design tips, Haley’s story is a must-watch for any aspiring entrepreneur. After 15 years in a stable corporate job, she felt lost and took a 6-month sabbatical. It was during this time, while decorating her own home (which ended up on a magazine cover!), that she discovered her true calling.
She candidly shares the "scary" reality of leaving a stable income with a mortgage and a young child in preschool, and how shifting her mindset from a "worker" to a "strategic business owner" changed everything in just one year.
3 Tips to Make Your Home Cozier Today
If you’re looking to elevate your space right now, Haley suggests focusing on these three pillars:
Zoning: Every home needs a "peace zone" or a "relaxing zone," regardless of how small the apartment is [20:47].
Sensory Feeding: You must feed both your visual and tactile senses through lighting, plants, and art [20:13].
Visual Flow: Identify your "wow factor" wall the moment you walk in and design around that anchor [23:38].
Ready to Transform Your Home or Your Business?
If you’re in Singapore and want to turn your house into a sanctuary, you can follow Haley on Instagram for daily inspiration or book a complimentary call with her.
And if you’re like Haley, you're someone with a passion and a "flare" who is ready to turn it into a structured, profitable business, come join us at my coaching program. As Haley mentioned, "clarity comes from action", and we’re here to help you take those first steps.
Book a call via the scheduler below and let's see if we can help you get to where you want to grow your business!
