TTT-S2E44-Ariene Bethea on Building a Bold, Vintage-Forward Interior Design Business

Episode 44 of To-The-Trade features Ariene Bethea of Dressing Rooms Interiors Studio in a lively chat with Laurie Laizure and Nile Johnson. Known for her fearless use of color, love of vintage, and warm personality, Ariene shares her winding journey from HR to interior design.

She recalls the pivotal moment when redesigning her boss’s office revealed her passion for the trade, explaining why rigid design “rules” from school didn’t fit her style. After a stint at Bassett Furniture, she expanded her Etsy vintage shop into a retail store. While the shop attracted clients, not all shared her bold style, teaching her to only showcase the work she truly wants to do. They discuss client management, why “products lead to projects,” and why high-pressure sales tactics don’t belong in luxury design. Laurie and Nile encourage Ariene to consider writing a book that blends her maximalist aesthetic with a sustainable, anti-fast-furniture message. Ariene also previews her growing lampshade line and future lighting plans. The conversation is rich with business insights, design philosophy, and encouragement for creative entrepreneurs to stay true to their style.