Nicole Sauma
Nicole Sauma
Creative Director / Interior Designer / Prop Stylist
Nashville, TN
www.nicolesauma.com
instagram @nicolesauma
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am a Creative Director, Interior Designer and Prop Stylist. ”
I develop concepts that are designed to tell a story and transform a space.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I initially studied Architecture and ended with a Graphic Design degree. I interned with an architectural firm for one summer and I realized I am truly passionate about interiors and styling. From there I went on to work with Anthropologie as a Visual Display intern, which meant I got to create themed visual experiences inside the stores and in the window displays. I’ve always loved interior design and I didn’t even think that prop styling was a career that existed. I wasn’t finding the dream job anywhere so I decided to create my own business as a side gig and offer my graphic design and interior styling services. I eventually went to work at Glamour (Conde Nast), as an Art Producer. Where I learned how to thrive in a fast-paced evolving industry. Then I landed at an advertising agency as a Creative Producer. All the while freelancing on the side, taking small projects where I was able to design creative content and prop style for brands.
How do you stand out in your field?
A unique perspective and the ability to balance creativity and reasoning.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I’m currently working on my own home design project. I recently moved to Nashville, Tennessee from Hoboken, New Jersey. The move has been a big change and a fun opportunity to express my style while also capturing the natural beauty of the landscape where the house is situated. I’ve been designing the interior of the home for the last month and a half. This project has also given me the chance to really explore the city of Nashville and find antique shops off the beaten path. I’ve been loving every minute of this project.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
Simple and thoughtful. I enjoy customizing classic designs for a timeless look, I try to stay away from trends. I have always felt inspired by Nancy Meyers' films, Something's Gotta Give, It’s Complicated, The Parent Trap and Father of the Bride.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Networking, especially since moving to a new city.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
Social Media. I try to use social media to network, but often end up aimlessly scrolling through instagram.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Jerry Maguire/Agent, they would handle marketing my services and bringing in business deals.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Believe in yourself. I tend to be very critical of myself.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
An expert on expanding small business. As a creative I find the most challenging aspect of business is marketing. I often do not have as much time as I would like to focus on selling myself and expanding my audience, in an authentic and genuine way.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Residential interior design projects and prop styling projects for digital, print or video.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
My ideal collaboration is with clients who allow creative freedom and trust my ability to deliver premium solutions. Aligning on a clear vision and a strong goal is the foundation to success.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
It truly depends on the scope of the project and the goal of the client. I typically use my hourly rate or a flat fee structure. Before I price anything, I like to thoroughly understand what my client’s ideal outcome is, and then I price according to the time and resources needed to achieve that goal.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
The best way to reach me is through email, nicolemsauma@gmail.com
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Exploring new places and spending hours roaming flea markets
This member profile was originally published in November 2019.