This Sunday, March 8th, is International Women’s Day. Different countries celebrate this special day in different ways. Some participate with a general celebration of respect, appreciation, and love towards women, while others celebrate by acknowledging women’s economic, political, and social achievements. I would like to take this opportunity to pause and reflect on a number of women from within New York City and the interior design community. These are women who make a positive difference every day in my life and the lives of others.
I don't race after TV personalities or movie stars with all my attention and admiration. Rather, I find myself gravitating toward those who appear to live real and exceptional lives. A small deviation from this rule, however, is a local NYC personality by the name of Eva Moskowitz. Eva made her name initially serving the New York City Council, targeting her attention towards NYC schools and school children. Her efforts resonated strongly with me, leading me to raise two children in the city through public schools.
Eva later ran for the position of Manhattan Borough President but was unfortunately lost. Rather than being defined by defeat, she went on to found a charter school that is currently the fastest growing education facility in the city. What I admire most about Eva is that she followed her passion for helping the children of New York and found success as a result. Not through celebrity, but through some serious grit and hard work – I LOVE THAT!
As an independent interior designer, I know SO MANY women who run their own business here in NYC that deserve an honorable mention too! We female business owners are making our way in the world, often without the huge resources of large company. We do this while nurturing families, supporting our spouses and striving to be the backbone of life for all we love. Friends like designer Deborah Martin, owner of Classic Rug, Barbara Barran, new acquaintance and boutique owner, Michele Varian and Feng Shui mentor, Maureen Calamia are some seriously inspirational women. These ladies are gracious, tenacious, and ambitious. They are amongst my mentors and I admire them, striving to model myself on them every day. Thank you for your ongoing support and guidance, Ladies!
Do you want to show your support for International Women’s Day but don’t know how? Give a friendly shout-out to women that continue to inspire YOU, or simply make an effort to let them know how special they are! Are you big on social media? Change your profile pictures and themes over to purple this Sunday with the hashtag #PaintItPurple to mark your support for this special day. #MakeItHappen