Every month we’re featuring one of the incredible Boss Babes that we know. Our December Boss Babe is Nicole Herman, founder of The Social Home, a full-service hospitality interior design firm. Nicole creates inviting interiors that are amazing experiences for her clients guests.
COMPANY NAME:
INSTAGRAM HANDLE:
When did you start your company?
I technically started my company in 2018; however, what it has evolved into was recently re-launched in 2020.
WHAT WAS THE BEST COCKTAIL YOU'VE EVER HAD AND WHERE WAS IT?
My favorite cocktail of all time was a drink I had while our family was on a staycation at The Fairmont Princess. It was at The Plaza Bar and had tequila, champagne, and smoked rose petals. It was both delicious and beautiful.
WHY DID YOU WANT TO WORK/START AT THIS COMPANY?
I spent a decade working for large hospitality interior design firms where we worked on incredible national and international projects. I had reached a senior-level position but had managed to burn myself out in the process entirely. I took about two years off to be a mom and figure out what I wanted to do. I have always felt in my gut that I would start my own business, but I honestly did not know if I wanted to go back to design. A year into my "sabbatical," I began to miss creative expression. I had a small business owner reach out to me about helping her design a co-working space, and it was through consulting with her that I remembered what it was I loved so much about design. This year I re-branded The Social Home to cater to small boutique businesses. I intend to not only design their spaces but create a cohesive brand story and experience for their guests.
HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF QUITTING? WHAT DID YOU DO TO GET YOU BACK ON TRACK?
Yes! Starting a business from scratch is exhausting, frustrating, scary, confusing, and can be so incredibly lonely at times. However, I then think about how much control over my schedule I now have, that I have the luxury of choosing what type of client and projects I take on, and how much better my work-life balance is, and I take another step moving forward.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO LISTEN TO IN YOUR CAR? (PODCASTS, MUSIC, AUDIOBOOKS, ETC.)
When I am alone in my car, I love to listen to podcasts and audiobooks. I am always looking for ways to learn and grow. My current favorites business podcasts are "The Legally Aligned Podcast," "Work Party," and "How I Built This." For personal growth - "The Goop Podcast," "Oprah's Super Soul Conversations," and "Unlocking Us with Brene Brown."
WHO IS SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO? (CAN BE FAMOUS, FAMILY… OR FAMOUS FAMILY.)
During my journey as an entrepreneur, I have met some of the most incredible women going after their dreams. They have been so inspiring and have helped me to push myself outside of my comfort zone. To name a few - Meghan of GAT, Lindsey & Coley of The Foundress, Alexis of The Shift Creative, Malia of The Collective, and Crystal of Crystal Clear Creative Studios.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING?
When I am not working, I am typically spending time with my husband and two kiddos. I love to run every morning, hike with friends, and always enjoy a good yoga session.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF?
My two kids. I am so incredibly proud to be their mother and to have the honor of guiding them in their journey of life.
IF YOU COULD GIVE ANY ADVICE TO YOURSELF 10 YEARS AGO WHAT WOULD THAT BE?
Stop stressing about how it "ends." It ALL works out, even better than you can imagine.
*If you know a really awesome Boss Babe, or you are a really awesome Boss Babe, and want to be featured on our blog, we want to hear from you! Shoot us an email: media@girlabouttown.org.