Today we’d like to introduce you to Nuha Moretz.
Hi Nuha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a Yemeni-American born in Yemen. My undergraduate studies focused on Computer Technology at Purdue University and when I graduated in 1995 I went back to Yemen to work in my field. After a few months, I realized I didn’t like computer programming. Yemen at that time was recovering from civil war and I found myself wanting to make an impact during this time by helping communities rebuild after the civil war. I took a job with CARE International as a Program Development Assistant. I traveled to remote areas developing programs that targeted poor and underserved areas. I found so much joy in my work and wanted to pursue a career in International Development. I was awarded a Fullbright scholarship to attend Ohio University. After graduating, I returned to Yemen to work on gender and education reform. My career took me on adventures in places like North and East Africa, Asia, and Central Asia. We moved every 5 years and every time I enjoyed decorating our home with our art and decorative pieces that we have collected along our travels to make our home cozy and warm. My friends started asking me to help them with their home decor or challenging design areas. I enjoyed helping them showcase their collected treasures, making their home express their personality and style. When my family and I decided to move back to the US I wanted to pursue my passion for art and design by founding Affordable Decor East Bay in Oakland, California. After building Affordable Decor East Bay’s success in Oakland Ca, my husband and I decided to move to Salt Lake City for many of the same reasons Utahns call it home — the spectacular outdoors and high quality of life filled with warm people.
I decided to keep my company’s name and this is how Affordable Decor SLC was born.
It was very important for me to distinguish my approach to interior decorating by making interior decorating affordable and unique to one’s style, budget and time frame. My goal is to help my clients achieve a fresh and beautiful space without having to spend a lot of money. I wanted to be creative in using their belongings and where necessary add a few items that complement the space.
I’m intrigued with design from the moment I walk into a space. I observe spaces with curiosity and respect because many elements go into making a beautiful room and each room is unique to an individual. When working with clients, I focus on the architectural features, color scheme, furniture layout, furnishings, flow and functionality of the given space. My style is eclectic and influenced by my passion, travels, and experiences. I love mixing old with new, integrating textures and color, layered with pieces that feel traveled and have history. My design philosophy is based on the belief that homes should be comfortable and livable while at the same time beautiful and a truly curated reflection of the people who inhabit them.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The name of my company was a challenge at first, because the word affordable design is confused or perceived to mean cheap design. The interior design world is defined as luxury, expensive, and custom not affordable. It was a process of changing attitudes to understand that affordable design is not cheap to design, it’s working with your belongings and within your budget, it’s the willingness to take on a small project and most importantly it’s no markups on products. This is what hiring Affordable Decor SLC means: no compromise on style and passing on the savings.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Affordable Decor SLC?
Interior Decorating Services: This is the quickest and easiest way to update your space if you are having difficulty making decisions, selecting furniture, paint color, or just need help pulling together a room or multiple rooms to achieve a cohesive living space. First, we will discuss your vision and timeline. Together we will design a plan to create a functional and comfortable environment with good flow that can dramatically enhance your space. When we’re done, we will review the design ideas and procurement plan if additional items are needed.
Shopping Services: Want to update parts of your home but don’t have the time or energy? Not sure what to get or where to go? Don’t worry — leave it to us! First, we will assess your needs and style. Then, we’ll do all the necessary shopping to help you transform your living space within your budget.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
If you’re just getting started, my advice would be to take advantage of any opportunities you find to get involved in your chosen field, whether that’s by volunteering or shadowing successsful individuals. Seek out chances to talk with people already working in the field. I was very fortunate to find someone that believed in me early in my staging career, who gave me opportunities to grow through initially small jobs that allowed me to succeed, rather than stretching my capabilities early on. After proving myself in these small jobs, I was able to take on increasingly larger jobs over time. Her support from the outset helped to build my confidence and skills and positioned me for wider success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.houzz.com/pro/nuhamoretz/__public
