Exploring Life & Business with Margaret Richardson of Armadillo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Margaret Richardson.

Hi Margaret, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in the South and consider North Carolina home – I moved there when I was ten, and most of my family is still spread across North Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, and Georgia. The people who know me best would say I’ve always been the same: a true lover of design, deeply drawn to thoughtful, intentional details, constantly inspired by florals, and an extrovert to my core. Creating community and pouring love into the people around me is one of my greatest joys.

Some of my most meaningful memories are with my grandmother in her home in Franklin, Louisiana. Her love for detail, design, tradition, and creating a warm, welcoming environment has stayed with me my entire life. Continuing and cherishing that legacy is incredibly important to me.

I attended college in Eastern North Carolina and was fortunate to intern for Carley Summers, who gave me the confidence to believe in myself. She made me feel seen in a professional setting for the very details I naturally gravitate toward. Working with her helped me realize that interiors wasn’t just a passion – it was where I was meant to be.

After college, I moved to Nashville and lived in a historic district full of charm and community. That chapter eventually led me to Realm Design Co., whose owners split their time between Tennessee and Southern California. Within a year, I felt a strong pull toward California – it’s the true Pisces in me; I’ve never been able to stay away from the water for long.

My aunt had lived in California for most of my life, so I was already familiar with its laid-back, coastal lifestyle. Her home always felt light, airy, and full of life – music playing, windows open – and I knew that was a feeling of home I wanted to recreate for myself. After moving to Orange County, I connected with Pure Salt Interiors. That experience gave me so much: a deeper appreciation for design and an incredible community of women in a place where I initially knew no one. Even now, many of my closest connections and friendships trace back to my time there.

Today, I’m the Trade Account Manager for Armadillo, covering Orange County and surrounding areas. A constant throughout my journey has been working with women-owned businesses – women who are thoughtful, intelligent, and deeply supportive of one another.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like most journeys, mine hasn’t been without its challenges – whether navigating family dynamics or feeling at times like the life I envisioned for myself was “too much.” But I’ve learned that if you feel a pull toward something different, it’s worth pursuing.

I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my parents and friends who feel like family – they’ve encouraged me to create a life that feels authentic to me. While I’m naturally drawn to the beauty in everyday life and feel called to capture it, I’ve also learned that how your life feels is far more important than how it looks.

Whenever I feel overwhelmed or disconnected, I come back to that idea. It’s carried me through difficult moments and continues to guide me toward a life that feels aligned at its core.

As you know, we’re big fans of Armadillo. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Armadillo is a women-owned and led business led by Jodie Fried and Sally Pottharst, and it’s the first U.S. and Australian rug brand to become a Certified B Corporation. The company is rooted in a deep commitment to artistry, sustainability, and social impact.

Our work goes beyond design – it supports the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and the livelihoods of artisans whose skills have been passed down through generations. At the same time, Armadillo is deeply committed to philanthropy, helping provide education and opportunity for girls from marginalized communities.

Each rug is handmade using carefully sourced natural fibers and crafted through traditional, energy-efficient processes. The result is a product defined by quality, longevity, and a sense of timelessness. We truly believe that timeless design can’t be rushed.

I’ve been with Armadillo for two and a half years, and I’m incredibly proud to represent a brand with such strong values and meaningful connections at its core. Recently, I came across a quote that resonated deeply: “Everything is in the details… not because they’re seeking perfection, but because they value intentionality.” That philosophy perfectly reflects our leadership and company culture.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
As a true extrovert, I genuinely believe the more connections, the better. I love meeting people – whether in person or through social media – and building relationships within the design community and beyond.

The best way to connect with me is through email or Instagram. I’m always open to collaboration, conversation, and creating something meaningful together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://armadillo-co.com/us
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretrichardson_/