Yvette Steward

“I found it nerve-wracking to make such an investment when I didn’t have any income yet.”
In the autumn of 2021, I decided to change course. I became an interior designer. I dove straight into the deep end, I quit my job as a project manager, enrolled in a training program, sought out clients, had a website built, and also decided right away that I wanted a coach. Marie-Gon immediately came to mind; she had left an impression on me during a webinar about color. We hit it off right away. She became my coach, that’s just how I am: if it feels right, I go for it.

Working with her, I got off to a flying start. I already had clients and projects before I had even officially launched. Marie-Gon provided guidance as I built my business, while also serving as a sounding board for those projects. Through her, I was able to work as a project manager for the VT Wonen & Design fair in 2022. That’s one of the best things about her, she introduces you to her own network whenever she sees an opportunity that’s a good fit for you.

Just leave it to me
I’ve been at this for a year and a half now, and slowly but surely, I’m seeing the real value I bring to my clients. I love projects where I can take the entire burden off the client’s shoulders, from start to finish. Whether it’s acting as a personal shopper for a restyle, overseeing a renovation, or delivering a turnkey project, essentially saying, “Here are the keys; just leave it to me”, I handle everything, from the initial design and procurement to the final styling. Right now, for instance, I’m working on a project along a canal in Amsterdam. I’m there instructing painters, consulting with a furniture maker, and even arranging a moving lift, all while the client is simply away at work, able to let go of everything, knowing that I’m taking care of it all.

“Marie-Gon is my safe base.”

Marie-Gon is my safe foundation. I owe a great deal to her. She gives me the confidence that I can do it. Every now and then, I book a brainstorming session with her, because I value hearing her perspective on things. She has guts and a deep understanding of color and layout.

Strong drive
It might be a somewhat unusual choice to work with a coach right from the start of your business, but it worked out exceptionally well for me. Honestly, everyone should do it this way! You do need a strong drive, though, because it’s quite intense. I also found it daunting to make such an investment when I didn’t have any income yet. I was juggling everything at once: working, pursuing a training program, and receiving coaching. But I haven’t regretted it for a single second. Much of what I learned from Marie-Gon, especially regarding entrepreneurship, is something I would have had to figure out all on my own if not for her. You don’t get that kind of insight from a standard training program.

Flying start
Marie-Gon is always there for you and has an amazing network. If you’re truly committed to making it happen, I highly recommend launching your business with her by your side from the very start. She provided me with a clear roadmap and is always ready to brainstorm, which does wonders for my self-confidence.

I’m all about visualization, dreaming big and then going after those dreams with everything I’ve got. Because it really is hard work; I have very little free time. In this field, nothing just falls into your lap, not even when you’re working with Marie-Gon.

Her warmth, her sincerity, it is truly wonderful to have someone like that to lean on. I wish everyone could have a Marie-Gon.

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