It was my first year working at Ralph Lauren. I remember a particular day fondly, rushing around ensuring everything was perfect in the newly renovated RL Home shop at Lord & Taylor on 5th Ave. Mr. Lauren was walking through the shop with our new Home Division President.

He entered the floor in his signature cool, laid-back fashion: a leather jacket and denim jeans. To most, this sounds very casual, but he had a way of dressing even in casual clothing and looking sharp.

As he passed me by, I casually said hello, introduced myself, and shook his hand. As I turned away to continue keeping myself busy he then said:

“Ummmm Ashley, what do you think of this bedding pattern?”

I almost died but I kept my composure and laid it out as nicely as I could. I explained that I do like a traditional pattern, but this pattern is a bit too traditional for me. I personally like something traditional with a bit of a more modern feel. This was before “Transitional” was used as a design term.

“So this looks very grandma?” he asked. I slightly laughed and replied: “You said it, not me!”

After a few pleasantries, he then cupped/shook my hand and said:

“It was very nice meeting you Ashley, thank you.”

This was not how I anticipated my first year with Ralph Lauren. People had worked there for 20+ years and had never met Ralph, let alone had a conversation with him. It was memorable, to say the least, and such an inspirational moment in my career.

While working at Ralph Lauren I learned how much creative attention is spent on the development of design. This creative process taught me that everybody, every family, has a story and a style, and this should play out in their home.

I don’t design homes, I design dreams!

Are you looking to create the home of your dreams?

Let’s start with a Delightful Design Session which is a 2-hour, in-home consultation. If you’re ready to create the home you have been dreaming of, let’s connect with a Delightful Design Session. Where we will meet for up to 2-hours, virtually or an in-home consultation, and let’s talk about your home, your vision, and how to bring it to life for you!

>> CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED <<<

P.S. All photos shown in this message were taken at the Ralph Lauren Home showroom in Chelsea NYC.