Lauren Lerner is the principal designer and CEO of Scottsdale-based Living with Lolo, a full-service design firm that focuses on new builds, full home remodels and furnishings. “I enjoy nudging my clients out of their comfort zone to help create an ultra-customized end product that is magazine-worthy!” Learn about Lauren Lerner…
Follow at: @livingwithloloaz
Hometown: Albuquerque, New Mexico
First job: During high school, I had the pleasure of working at The Body Shop. Being associated with an innovator in the cosmetics industry that advocated against animal testing and promoted social and green issues was something that filled me with pride.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: I absolutely adore spending my free time mountain biking and hiking in Arizona! There’s nothing like being out in nature, enveloped by its pure and stunning beauty – with nobody else around. The peace and serenity that surrounds me are both invigorating and inspiring.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: My most significant achievement is raising my 8-year-old son while successfully co-parenting with his dad and his stepmother.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: One of my greatest achievements was changing careers in my 30’s. Despite the daunting prospect of starting over from scratch, it was a decision I never regretted. In fact, it was the best decision I ever made.
Someone who inspires you and why: My team inspires me every day. They are all mothers to young boys, yet they still have the ability to be incredible moms while being part of our amazing design team. Their work is making a huge impact in our clients’ homes, and it’s amazing to see.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Don’t let others dictate your path. Be true to yourself, seek help when necessary, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Remember, great accomplishments often require big risks.
Favorite quote: “You can be both a beautiful masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time.”
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: That I am equal parts granola and girly!
What makes someone fabulous: Having the grit to carve out your own path and persevere with grace in the face of obstacles is what makes a person truly fabulous.