Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhett Monson
Rhett, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I went to LSU for Interior Design and received my bachelor’s degree. I graduated and moved to Florida. During that time, I worked for three well known firms. I moved to Los Angeles in 2001. After searching unsuccessfully for firms that did the scope of work I had become accustomed to, I decided to start my own business. RLM Decor comes from my initials, Rhett Layne Monson. I started meeting with realtors and builders to gain connections. With my background and experience, I enjoy being involved in all aspects of the job, especially if it new construction from the ground up. I like staying with a job until every detail is complete and I get to basically present the client with their dream home. The entire time I am getting to know the clients and basically becoming friends so I understand their needs and desires. It makes me feel good each year when I received Christmas Cards from clients that I worked with over 25 years ago.
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?
Not smooth at all. I blindly moved to Los Angeles expecting to find residential firms set up just like I was used to in Orlando and Palm Beach. The work style is different in Los Angeles so there weren’t the large firms to just slip in as my new home. I had to start my own company which was never a plan I had as a goal. Give me the work and I will work all day long. Ask me to market myself and I would rather have someone else take over that area. The style was also an adjustment. The homes in Florida were filled with details and color. Los Angeles, especially at the time of my arrival was simply line with a focus on white,
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
With my bachelor’s degree, we also had studies in architecture and structural design. I love the decorating part of my job but I can do so much more. Most jobs, I have input in cabinet layouts and design, lighting details, and architectural details and embellishments. From there, I move on the decorative part of the job with plumbing, tile, slab, light fixture, furniture, art, and accessory selections. I strive to make the home beautiful and comfortable. My favorite comment is when regardless of the level of elegance or expense, people look at the home and say, I could live here. That lets me know the home creates a feeling of comfort, beauty, and approachability.
What matters most to you? Why?
Making the customer happy. I take their vision and make it the best that it can be. I listen and even if their desires are something I would prefer not to happen, I am always aware that it is their house so what they want is valid.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.RLMDecor.com
- Instagram: @rlmdecor
