Imagine transforming a simple job as a waitress into the cornerstone of a glittering 20-year career in high-end interior design—sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? But for Kelly Wearstler, that's exactly what happened, and her story is a powerful reminder that the skills we pick up in everyday roles can shape our destinies in unexpected ways. Dive in, and you might just rethink how your own 'humble' experiences could elevate your professional life.
Kelly Wearstler, whose website you can explore at https://www.kellywearstler.com/, boasts an impressive track record spanning decades in the world of interior design. She's collaborated with A-list celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Cameron Diaz, launched her own product line, and even crafted designs for hotels across the globe. Her journey didn't start in the spotlight, though—she honed her craft through formal education, studying interior, architectural, and graphic design in college. Her list of honors is equally stellar, including spots on Architectural Digest's AD100 list and Time Magazine's Design 100. Plus, she made history as the very first interior designer to lead a MasterClass, sharing her expertise with eager learners worldwide.
Yet, before she launched her design studio back in 1999, Wearstler was hustling as a waitress to make ends meet, juggling shifts to clear her student loans. Fast-forward over two decades, and the 57-year-old from South Carolina looks back on those days not with regret, but with gratitude. She attributes much of her ability to handle the wide array of clients she works with today to the lessons learned behind the bar.
And this is the part most people miss... Wearstler doesn't just see her waitressing gig as a paycheck; she views it as a masterclass in essential interpersonal skills. In an interview with CNBC Make It, she explains how it honed her ability to truly listen—something crucial in design, where understanding a client's vision can mean the difference between a good space and a transformative one. For beginners in any field, think of it like this: active listening isn't just hearing words; it's picking up on unspoken cues, like a client's excitement about a color or hesitation about a layout, and responding thoughtfully. She also emphasizes the importance of posing the right questions, a skill that walks hand-in-hand with listening. These aren't abstract concepts—they're practical tools that helped her evolve from a shy young woman to a confident professional.
'I had to develop ways to engage people effectively,' Wearstler reflects. 'It was about being attentive, then knowing exactly what to ask to uncover their needs. Both skills are interconnected and vital.' She adds that overcoming her shyness was a big part of it too—each table visit forced her to introduce herself with a friendly 'Hi, I'm Kelly,' building her comfort in speaking up over time. This practice translated seamlessly into her design work, where clear communication turns ideas into reality.
Wearstler draws fascinating parallels between her past and present. The memorable moments she creates for her design clients mirror the satisfying interactions she provided as a waitress. She describes both roles as deeply social, centered on nurturing and delighting people. 'I'm passionate about caring for others and delivering unforgettable experiences,' she says. 'Now, it's through visual storytelling instead of serving meals, but the heart of it remains the same.'
But here's where it gets controversial... Not everyone agrees that 'soft' skills from service jobs like waitressing hold the same weight as formal training in creative professions. Some might argue that design success hinges on raw talent or advanced education, downplaying the value of everyday roles. What do you think—is Wearstler onto something revolutionary, or is this just a feel-good narrative? Could your own under-the-radar jobs be hiding untapped potential for your career?
During a discussion at SoFi's inaugural home lending event, titled 'Designing the Future of Homeownership,' Wearstler underscored that great design isn't about chasing trends—it's rooted in history. She advocates for blending the timeless charm of the past with fresh, modern energy. 'A truly exceptional designer must be versed in historical influences,' she notes. 'It's about curating a home with a soul steeped in tradition yet alive with contemporary vitality.' She stresses that your living space is an ongoing project, one that demands honesty and personal investment. 'You need to stay true to yourself,' she advises, 'and prioritize what truly matters by making design decisions that reflect your unique story.' For instance, if history inspires you, you might incorporate antique elements like vintage mirrors or period-inspired flooring, while infusing them with today's sleek materials for a balanced look.
Ready to boost your own skills? Consider enrolling in CNBC Make It's new online course, 'How To Use AI To Communicate Better At Work,' available at http://smarter.cnbcmakeit.com/p/how-to-use-ai-to-communicate-better-at-work?utmsource=cnbc&utmmedium=makeitarticle&utm_campaign=bottom. It offers tailored prompts to refine your emails, memos, and presentations, ensuring they hit the right tone, context, and audience.
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What about you? Do you believe that unconventional job experiences can be game-changers in your field, or is Wearstler's take just one perspective? Share your opinions, agreements, or disagreements in the comments—we'd love to hear your take and spark a conversation!
