Scarlett J Designs is a a boutique Sarasota interior design studio delivering elevated interiors, bold brand styling, and curated special events for busy professionals and families who want impact without the overwhelm.
Last week I had the opportunity to attend a design retreat in Palm Beach, and it ended up being one of those life-changing experiences that reminds you why community matters—especially in an industry like interior design.
Interior design is often seen as competitive, but what I experienced this week was the exact opposite. The retreat brought together an incredible group of women designers and entrepreneurs who share a passion for creativity, business, and supporting one another.
It was a reminder that there is real power in women supporting women, particularly when we’re building businesses, growing our careers, and navigating the creative industry together.
The Power of Women in Business
Many of the conversations throughout the retreat centered around entrepreneurship.
Running a design business requires so much more than creativity. It requires leadership, financial strategy, resilience, and the willingness to keep evolving.
Spending time with other women who understand the challenges and rewards of building something of your own was incredibly energizing. There’s something powerful about being in a room with people who truly understand the journey.
It reinforced something I deeply believe: when women collaborate instead of compete, everyone grows.
Design Inspiration at the Kips Bay Show House
No design trip to Palm Beach would be complete without visiting the incredible Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach.
Every year, top designers from around the country transform a Palm Beach home into a showcase of creativity, craftsmanship, and bold design ideas.
Walking through the show house was so inspiring, because each room tells a completely different story. Some spaces push boundaries with color and pattern, while others focus on texture, architecture, and thoughtful details.
A few things that stood out to me this year:
Bold color moments
Designers were not afraid of color (are they ever?). Deep greens, layered blues, and rich jewel tones created spaces that felt vibrant and confident.
Layered textures
From grasscloth walls to sculptural lighting and tactile fabrics, texture played a huge role in making each room feel immersive.
Unexpected details
The best spaces always include something surprising—whether it’s a dramatic ceiling treatment, a statement light fixture, or a unique butterfly accessory.
These kinds of spaces remind you that design is about storytelling just as much as it is about aesthetics.
Why Experiences Like This Matter
As designers, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day demands of running a business and managing projects.
But stepping away for a few days to connect with other creatives, share ideas, and explore inspiring spaces can completely recharge your perspective.
This retreat was a reminder that growth doesn’t happen in isolation.
It happens through community, collaboration, and a willingness to learn from one another.
Closing Thoughts
Between the conversations with fellow designers, the entrepreneurial inspiration, and the incredible design moments at Kips Bay, this week in Palm Beach was one I won’t ever forget.
It was a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of women supporting women in business.
Experiences like this continue to shape the way I approach my work as a designer—bringing fresh inspiration and thoughtful ideas back to every project.
Special thanks to Liz Levin and her LL Design House team for being our hosts in beautiful Palm Beach!
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